http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/ en Copyright 2008 2008-05-14T20:36:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_party_leaders_call_for_change_in_indiana/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_party_leaders_call_for_change_in_indiana/ INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - In another sign of the growing solidarity of the Democratic Party, today state and local party leaders joined gubernatorial nominee Jill Long Thompson in calling for real change in Indiana.   In a news conference at the Indiana Statehouse on Wednesday, Indiana House Speaker B. Patrick Bauer (D-South Bend), Senate Democrat Leader Richard Young (D-Milltown), State Party Chair Dan Parker and several other state legislators, Marion County elected officials and party leaders pledged their support to Long Thompson's candidacy.   "After four years of the misguided policies of the Daniels administration, Hoosiers want new leadership and a new direction for our state - and with Jill leading the ticket that's what Democrats will bring this fall," said Bauer, who spoke on behalf of the members of the House Democratic Caucus.   To read more, click here.      For Immediate Release: May 14, 2008                                                                                                                        LONG THOMPSON, PARTY LEADERS CALL FOR CHANGE IN INDIANA   INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - In another sign of the growing solidarity of the Democratic Party, today state and local party leaders joined gubernatorial nominee Jill Long Thompson in calling for real change in Indiana.   In a news conference at the Indiana Statehouse on Wednesday, Indiana House Speaker B. Patrick Bauer (D-South Bend), Senate Democrat Leader Richard Young (D-Milltown), State Party Chair Dan Parker and several other state legislators, Marion County elected officials and party leaders pledged their support to Long Thompson's candidacy.   "After four years of the misguided policies of the Daniels administration, Hoosiers want new leadership and a new direction for our state - and with Jill leading the ticket that's what Democrats will bring this fall," said Bauer, who spoke on behalf of the members of the House Democratic Caucus.   "Our party is energized like never before and we are ready to do everything we can to help elect Jill Long Thompson Governor and get Indiana moving again."   A former college professor, city councilwoman, Congresswoman and Under Secretary for Rural Development at the United States Department of Agriculture, Long Thompson is the first woman in the state's history to secure the gubernatorial  nomination of either political party.   "We are thrilled to have Jill Long Thompson as the standard bearer of our party because we know that she will stand up and fight for the working people of this state," said Young, who represented  his colleagues in the State Senate Democratic Caucus.  "Jill has the right kind of experience and vision to put Indiana back on track."   Long Thompson will continue to travel the state in the coming days meeting with party leaders and organizing her statewide campaign.   "I am honored to have secured the nomination of this party and to have the full backing of its leadership," said Long Thompson. "Indiana Democrats have an historic opportunity this fall to not only expand our party and win races up and down the ballot, but to chart a new course for Indiana - and by working together that's what we will do."   Long Thompson represented Northeast Indiana in the U.S. House of Representatives serving from 1989 to 1995. She also served as U.S. Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development from 1995 to 2001. She received her B.S. in Business from Valparaiso University and her M.B.A. and Ph.D. in Business from Indiana University. A former educator, Long Thompson most recently served as CEO of The National Center for Food and Agricultural Policy. Long Thompson and her husband Don Thompson, a commercial airline pilot, live on their family farm in Marshall County.   For more information about Jill Long Thompson or her campaign, please visit www.hoosiersforjill.com or call 574- 892-6100.   ### 2008-05-14T20:36:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/united_food_and_commercial_workers_union_endorses_long_thompson_for_governo/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/united_food_and_commercial_workers_union_endorses_long_thompson_for_governo/   ARGOS, Ind. - Adding to momentum of her candidacy, today Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jill Long Thompson welcomed the support of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union.   Composed of approximately 11,700 members, the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW) represents retail, manufacturing, meat packing and processing, hair care and health care workers throughout the state.   "After four years of Mitch Daniels and policies that cost us thousands of good-paying jobs and hurt working families, Hoosiers need a change in the Governor's office," said UFCW Local 700 President Joe Chorpenning. "We need Jill Long Thompson." To read more, click here. For Immediate Release: May 13, 2008     UNITED FOOD AND COMMERCIAL WORKERS UNION ENDORSES LONG THOMPSON FOR GOVERNOR   ARGOS, Ind. - Adding to momentum of her candidacy, today Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jill Long Thompson welcomed the support of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union.   Composed of approximately 11,700 members, the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW) represents retail, manufacturing, meat packing and processing, hair care and health care workers throughout the state.   "After four years of Mitch Daniels and policies that cost us thousands of good-paying jobs and hurt working families, Hoosiers need a change in the Governor's office," said UFCW Local 700 President Joe Chorpenning. "We need Jill Long Thompson."   "As our next Governor, Jill will fight for our jobs and for our families. She'll work with us to rebuild the economy, lower the cost of healthcare and improve the educational opportunities for our children," added Chorpenning. "We are proud to stand with Jill and pledge to do everything we can to help elect her Governor."   UFCW Local 700 is a charted Local of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union. The UFCW is the largest private sector union in America with more than 1.4 million members.   UFCW Local 700 was created in 1992 with the merger of the Indianapolis, Terre Haute, Evansville and South Bend Local Unions. This created a Local Union that represented more than 11,000 members in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio and Michigan.   Long Thompson represented Northeast Indiana in the U.S. House of Representatives serving from 1989 to 1995. She also served as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development from 1995 to 2001. She received her B.S. in Business from Valparaiso University and her M.B.A and Ph.D. from Indiana University. Long Thompson most recently served as CEO of The National Center for Food and Agricultural Policy. A former educator, Long Thompson and her husband Don Thompson, a commercial airline pilot, live on their family farm in Marshall County.   For more information about Jill Long Thompson or her campaign, please visit www.hoosiersforjill.com or call 574- 892-6100.   ### 2008-05-13T20:32:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_earns_backing_of_machinists_and_aerospace_workers/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_earns_backing_of_machinists_and_aerospace_workers/ ARGOS, Ind. - Today the Indiana International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers officially endorsed Jill Long Thompson for Governor of Indiana.   Representing more than 4,600 Hoosiers across the state and 730,000 members across North America, the union includes professionals from the aerospace, automotive, government, transportation and woodworking industries.   To read more, click here.        For Immediate Release: May 12, 2008   LONG THOMPSON EARNS BACKING OF MACHINISTS AND AEROSPACE WORKERS    ARGOS, Ind. - Today the Indiana International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers officially endorsed Jill Long Thompson for Governor of Indiana.   Representing more than 4,600 Hoosiers across the state and 730,000 members across North America, the union includes professionals from the aerospace, automotive, government, transportation and woodworking industries.    "Jill Long Thompson is someone that we know will stand up for the working people of this state, because she's done it throughout her entire career," said Tim Hough, the Directing Business Representative for Indiana International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers' District Lodge 90.   "Jill understands that Indiana needs more jobs, but she also understands that they must be good jobs," added Hough. "As Governor she will fight to protect our jobs from leaving the state, she'll work with us to attract new jobs that pay a living wage and offer benefits and she'll fight to ensure that our workplaces are safe - and that's why we enthusiastically endorse her candidacy."   Long Thompson represented Northeast Indiana in the U.S. House of Representatives serving from 1989 to 1995. She also served as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development from 1995 to 2001. She received her B.S. in Business from Valparaiso University and her M.B.A and Ph.D. from Indiana University. A former educator, Long Thompson most recently served as CEO of The National Center for Food and Agricultural Policy. She lives with her husband Don Thompson, a commercial airline pilot, on their family farm in Marshall County.   For more information about Jill Long Thompson or her campaign, please visit www.hoosiersforjill.com or call 574- 892-6100. ### 2008-05-12T20:20:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/shes_ready_for_a_fight/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/shes_ready_for_a_fight/   On Wednesday, Long Thompson was less interested in reviewing her win and more eager to take on Daniels.   "I'm ready to now take this campaign to the fall, win and then spend eight years rebuilding Indiana's economy, bringing health-care costs down, increasing our high school graduation rate and stopping the privatization madness of Governor Daniels," she said.   Click here to read more...   She's ready for a fight Long Thompson seeks out cash to take on better-financed Daniels By Bill Ruthhart bill.ruthhart@indystar.com   It took close to 24 hours after Indiana's polls closed for Jill Long Thompson to sew up her win as the Democratic nominee for governor, but she wasted no time Wednesday homing in on her next target: Mitch Daniels.   Driving south after a campaign rally in Fort Wayne, the former congresswoman made about 50 phone calls, including a number in which she sought campaign contributions.   She's going to need the help.   Daniels has raised more than $8.8 million, according to current finance reports. He's run 11 different television ads in the past two months, during which he was uncontested in the primary.   In the same period, Long Thompson ran four TV ads. She raised $1.4 million and spent most of it in her narrow win over Indianapolis architect Jim Schellinger.   Her rival raised more than twice the amount Long Thompson did -- $2.9 million, according to finance reports.   The last of Indiana's votes trickled in Wednesday, and at 4:15 p.m. Schellinger called Thompson to concede. He declined to comment.   Schellinger's campaign manager, Tim Jeffers, said they spent much of the day watching late returns from Marion and Lake counties while analyzing provisional ballot returns.   "We wanted to take our time," he said. "We were all half-asleep."   With all but two of the state's 5,230 precincts reporting Wednesday, Thompson won about 7,000 more votes than Schellinger.   Lake County made the difference.   With vote totals in from much of the state Tuesday night, Schellinger narrowly led Long Thompson before the Lake County ballots were counted.   Around midnight, he headed home. Lake County's returns didn't come in until later.   With support from party leaders in Lake County and the backing of most mayors there, Schellinger's campaign expected him to win there.   "He went to bed certainly thinking he wasn't going to lose," Jeffers said of Schellinger. "But I don't think he slept well, either."   In the end, Long Thompson won 55 percent of Lake County's vote to Schellinger's 45 percent.   "We were anticipating coming out of Lake with 10,000 or 15,000 votes, and we lost by 10,000-plus," Jeffers said. "We don't know what happened. We thought Lake County was in our hip pocket."   Long Thompson credited her success there to a grass-roots effort, particularly the support of the United Steelworkers and Lake County Sheriff Roy Dominguez.   While Long Thompson won 70 percent of the vote in Allen County, an area considered a stronghold for her, Schellinger won his home turf, Marion County, by a much slimmer margin. He won here by fewer than 4,000 votes, or 51 percent of the vote.   On Wednesday, Long Thompson was less interested in reviewing her win and more eager to take on Daniels.   "I'm ready to now take this campaign to the fall, win and then spend eight years rebuilding Indiana's economy, bringing health-care costs down, increasing our high school graduation rate and stopping the privatization madness of Governor Daniels," she said.   Cam Savage, communications director for Daniels' campaign, said the governor's strategy for re-election doesn't change by facing an experienced candidate such as Long Thompson instead of a first-timer such as Schellinger.   "It doesn't matter to us who we face," Savage said. "The important thing is we'll run a positive campaign on the issues."   Daniels, he said, plans to highlight his accomplishments while offering a vision for the future.   "Our campaign will be one where we talk about the job the governor has done and his administration is doing in bringing positive changes to Indiana," Savage said.   During their primary race, Schellinger reported $524,000 in donations of $10,000 or more since April 15, compared to $494,000 for Long Thompson.   Daniels, without the need for last-minute cash to push a primary bid, raised nearly as much: $475,000.   Long Thompson, though, said she wasn't fazed by Daniels' ability to drum up contributions.   "I expect to be very competitive in the fundraising," she said, "and even more competitive in getting votes." 2008-05-08T13:00:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_wins_democratic_primary_for_governor/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_wins_democratic_primary_for_governor/   FORT WAYNE, Ind. - In a historic election for Hoosier Democrats, early this morning Jill Long Thompson was officially declared the winner of the Democratic nomination for Governor of Indiana.   A former professional educator, city councilwoman, Congresswoman and U.S. Under Secretary of Agriculture, Long Thompson becomes the first woman in Indiana history to secure the gubernatorial nomination of either major political party.   Click here to read more...   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: May 7, 2008                                                                                                                          LONG THOMPSON WINS DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY FOR GOVERNOR   FORT WAYNE, Ind. - In a historic election for Hoosier Democrats, early this morning Jill Long Thompson was officially declared the winner of the Democratic nomination for Governor of Indiana.   A former professional educator, city councilwoman, Congresswoman and U.S. Under Secretary of Agriculture, Long Thompson becomes the first woman in Indiana history to secure the gubernatorial nomination of either major political party.   "I am truly humbled and honored by the trust that the voters have placed in me," said Long Thompson, who celebrated Election night with supporters at the Grand Wayne Center in Fort Wayne. "Throughout this campaign, we laid out a clear vision for rebuilding Indiana's economy, increasing access to affordable healthcare and for improving our schools - and Hoosiers responded."   "With the primary behind us, we must now come together as Democrats to take on Mitch Daniels and put Indiana back on track," added Long Thompson. "Hoosiers are ready for new leadership, new ideas and a new direction and that's what I offer."   Long Thompson also congratulated her primary opponent, Indianapolis architect Jim Schellinger on his campaign.   "I want to thank Jim Schellinger for running a spirited campaign and helping to expand our party. Don and I enjoyed getting to know Jim and Laura throughout this process - and we know that they will continue to play an important role in the Democratic Party for many years to come," said Long Thompson." I wish them all the best and look forward to working with them to defeat Mitch Daniels this fall. "   With the nomination secured, Long Thompson will spend the next several weeks traveling the state talking to voters, selecting a running mate, raising funds and expanding her campaign's grassroots network.       ### 2008-05-07T12:57:01Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/state_senator_sue_errington_backs_long_thompson_for_governor/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/state_senator_sue_errington_backs_long_thompson_for_governor/   Errington: Jill is the only candidate who can get Indiana Back on Track   ARGOS, Ind. - State Senator Sue Errington (D-Muncie) today announced she is backing Jill Long Thompson to be the next Governor of Indiana.       Errington joins a growing list of state legislators and local leaders supporting Long Thompson.  Just this week, the campaign announced endorsements from State Senator Connie Sipes (D-Albany), Lake County Sheriff Roy Dominguez, and former State Senator and 1984 Democratic gubernatorial nominee, Wayne Townsend.    Click here to read more...   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: May 1, 2008                                                                                                                           STATE SENATOR SUE ERRINGTON BACKS LONG THOMPSON FOR GOVERNOR Errington: Jill is the only candidate who can get Indiana Back on Track   ARGOS, Ind. - State Senator Sue Errington (D-Muncie) today announced she is backing Jill Long Thompson to be the next Governor of Indiana.       Errington joins a growing list of state legislators and local leaders supporting Long Thompson.  Just this week, the campaign announced endorsements from State Senator Connie Sipes (D-Albany), Lake County Sheriff Roy Dominguez, and former State Senator and 1984 Democratic gubernatorial nominee, Wayne Townsend.    "Jill Long Thompson is the only candidate who can get Indiana back on track," said Errington.  "Jill's proven ability to get our economy going again, bolster public education and make health care affordable is exactly what Indiana needs right now."    "I am honored by Senator Errington's endorsement," Long Thompson said.  "She is a real fighter for Indiana's working families and I'm thrilled to have her on my side during this campaign."   First elected to the State Senate in November of 2006, Errington has a long record of public service. She has served on the Delaware County Council, the Mayor's Affirmative Action Task Force, the Mayor's Advisory Committee on Health Education, the City-County Commission Against Domestic Violence, the Delaware County Community Corrections Board and the Muncie Housing Authority.  Errington has also volunteered with local, state and national organizations advancing women's rights and good government including the National Organization for Women (NOW), the Muncie-Delaware County Coalition of Women's Organizations, the League of Women Voters, and American Association of University Women. In 2007 Errington was awarded the Athena Award from the Women in Business Unlimited.   In the State Senate, Errington is a leading proponent of adequately funding Indiana's schools, making college more affordable and making health care more accessible and affordable for all Hoosiers.    ###     2008-05-01T16:58:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/senator_connie_sipes_endorses_jill_long_thompson_for_governor/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/senator_connie_sipes_endorses_jill_long_thompson_for_governor/   ARGOS, Ind. - Citing her commitment to Indiana's working families, today State Senator Connie Sipes (D-New Albany) officially endorsed Jill Long Thompson for Governor.   "Jill Long Thompson will make an outstanding Governor and I am proud to offer my support," said Sipes. "Her background as a professional educator, a farmer, a Congresswoman and Under Secretary of Agriculture has prepared her for the challenges she will face as Indiana's next Governor."   Click here to read more....   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: April 30, 2008                                                                                                                      SENATOR CONNIE SIPES ENDORSES JILL LONG THOMPSON FOR GOVERNOR   ARGOS, Ind. - Citing her commitment to Indiana's working families, today State Senator Connie Sipes (D-New Albany) officially endorsed Jill Long Thompson for Governor.   "Jill Long Thompson will make an outstanding Governor and I am proud to offer my support," said Sipes. "Her background as a professional educator, a farmer, a Congresswoman and Under Secretary of Agriculture has prepared her for the challenges she will face as Indiana's next Governor."   "As a teacher myself, I am especially impressed with Jill's understanding and dedication to improving our education system and lowering the dropout rate," added Sipes.   A former principal at Fairmont Elementary School in New Albany, Sipes is a leading voice on education and health care issues in the State Senate. She serves on a number of important committees including the Senate's Education & Career Development Committee;  Tax & Fiscal Policy; Natural Resources, Transportation & Veterans Affairs and; Health & Provider Service Committees.   "I am so proud to have Connie Sipes on my side," said Long Thompson. "Throughout her career as a teacher, principal and state legislator she has worked tirelessly to make Indiana a better place. I look forward to working with her to strengthen our schools, our economy and our workforce, so we can chart a more prosperous course for Indiana's future."   Sipes is the latest in an impressive list of organizations, elected officials and party leaders who are backing Long Thompson's candidacy.   Earlier this week Lake County Sheriff Roy Dominguez and former State Senator and 1984 Democratic gubernatorial Wayne Townsend announced their support. Last week former Indiana First Lady Maggie Kernan and seven more state legislators endorsed Long Thompson's candidacy.   She had previously earned the support of 22 Indiana mayors, former Congressmen Andy Jacobs Jr. and Dave Evans, the United Steelworkers, the Service Employee International Union, Communication Workers of America, the American Federation of Government Employees, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, the United Transportation Union and Local #446 of Association of Federal, State, County and Municipal Employees and six Indiana Teamsters locals.   ###   2008-04-30T16:48:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/former_democratic_candidate_for_governor_wayne_townsend_endorses_long_thomp/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/former_democratic_candidate_for_governor_wayne_townsend_endorses_long_thomp/   Townsend: Jill has the best chance to defeat Mitch Daniels   ARGOS, Ind. - Former Indiana State Senator and 1984 Democratic gubernatorial nominee Wayne Townsend (D-Hartford City) today announced that he is backing Jill Long Thompson to be the next Governor of Indiana.    Townsend cited Long Thompson's extensive experience and proven leadership as reasons for his endorsement, adding that he believes Long Thompson is best equipped to address key issues facing Indiana such as tax reform, job creation, and education.   Click here to read more...   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: April 29, 2008                                                                                                                       FORMER DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR GOVERNOR WAYNE TOWNSEND ENDORSES LONG THOMPSON   Townsend: Jill has the best chance to defeat Mitch Daniels   ARGOS, Ind. - Former Indiana State Senator and 1984 Democratic gubernatorial nominee Wayne Townsend (D-Hartford City) today announced that he is backing Jill Long Thompson to be the next Governor of Indiana.    Townsend cited Long Thompson's extensive experience and proven leadership as reasons for his endorsement, adding that he believes Long Thompson is best equipped to address key issues facing Indiana such as tax reform, job creation, and education.   "Jill Long Thompson has exactly what Indiana needs to get back on track," said Townsend.  "It is rare that a leader like Jill comes along with her experience and command of issues in addition to knowing first-hand the day-to-day struggles of ordinary Hoosiers. Jill will make an excellent governor."   Townsend said, "Jill has the best chance to defeat Governor Daniels because her broad experience and impressive record in Congress and as Under Secretary of Agriculture give her credibility with the voters that she can do the job better."  Townsend added that Daniels continues to be vulnerable because the state is in much worse shape that it was when he took over.  "Under the incumbent governor, Indiana has lost thousands of good-paying jobs, our public schools have largely been ignored and taxes are skyrocketing.  Clearly Jill is the best candidate to help get Indiana back on track."    "The impact of the Daniels privatization policies especially concerns me. We cannot continue to relinquish control of public property and place that control in private hands for benefit of private concerns," added Townsend. "We also need to build avenues to strengthen public education instead of creating barriers which hamper educators from doing their job as the Daniels administration has done."   Long Thompson said, "I am deeply honored by Wayne Townsend's support of my candidacy for governor.   There are few people in public life for whom I have more respect than Wayne Townsend.  He has long been a champion of Hoosier working families."   Raised on a farm, Wayne Townsend started his own farming operation after earning a degree in agriculture from Purdue University. What began as a 225-acre venture is now a 2,500-acre farm. He was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 1958 at the age of 32, where he served with his close college friend Birch Bayh, who became Speaker. Townsend went on to serve 16 years in the Indiana State Senate. He was the Democratic nominee for governor in 1984, and made history by naming the first woman Lieutenant Governor nominee in Indiana.  Townsend served as Trustee for Earlham College for 8 years and for Purdue University for 15 years.     ###   2008-04-29T17:54:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/lake_county_sheriff_roy_dominguez_endorses_jill_long_thompson_for_governor/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/lake_county_sheriff_roy_dominguez_endorses_jill_long_thompson_for_governor/   ARGOS, Ind. - Calling her a proven leader who will fight for Indiana's working families, today Lake County Sheriff Roy Dominguez formally endorsed Jill Long Thompson for Governor.   "I am supporting Jill Long Thompson for Governor because I believe she is the best qualified person to lead Indiana in a new, more prosperous direction," said Dominguez.  "Jill is smart, tough and experienced - and that's what we need right now."   Click here to read more... NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: April 28, 2008                                                                                                                    LAKE COUNTY SHERIFF ROY DOMINGUEZ ENDORSES JILL LONG THOMPSON FOR GOVERNOR   ARGOS, Ind. - Calling her a proven leader who will fight for Indiana's working families, today Lake County Sheriff Roy Dominguez formally endorsed Jill Long Thompson for Governor.   "I am supporting Jill Long Thompson for Governor because I believe she is the best qualified person to lead Indiana in a new, more prosperous direction," said Dominguez.  "Jill is smart, tough and experienced - and that's what we need right now."   "She has a clear vision of where she wants to take this state," added Dominguez. "As Governor, Jill will be an outstanding partner for those of us in public safety and, because she spent a good portion of her life living here, I know she will fight for Northwest Indiana in the Statehouse."   "I ask the citizens of Northwest Indiana to vote for Jill Long Thompson for Governor."   Dominguez joins a growing list of organizations, elected officials and party leaders who are backing Long Thompson for Governor. Last week several Northwest Indiana lawmakers, including State Senator Karen Tallian (D-Portage), State Representative Charlie Brown (D-Gary), State Representative Linda Lawson (D-Hammond), State Representative Dan Stevenson (D-Highland) and State Representative Mara Candelaria Reardon (D-Munster) all formally endorsed Long Thompson's candidacy. State Senator Earline Rogers (D-Gary) had earlier endorsed Long Thompson.   "I am honored to have earned Sheriff Dominguez's support," said Long Thompson, who will campaign with the Sheriff in Lake County on Wednesday. "He is an outstanding public servant and someone for whom I have great respect."   "I look forward working with him put all of Indiana back on track."   In addition to her support in Northwest Indiana, Long Thompson has secured a number of key endorsements throughout the state, including the United Steelworkers, the Service Employee International Union, Communication Workers of America, the American Federation of Government Employees, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, the United Transportation Union and Local #446 of Association of Federal, State, County and Municipal Employees and six Indiana Teamsters locals.   She has also earned the support of 22 Indiana mayors, former Congressmen Andy Jacobs Jr. and Dave Evans as well as former Indiana First Lady Maggie Kernan.   ###   2008-04-28T17:51:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/courier_journal_endorsement_a_hoosier_choice/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/courier_journal_endorsement_a_hoosier_choice/   Maybe familiarity with public process was what made it possible for Ms. Thompson to identify quickly and specifically, when asked, the one recommendation from a recent bipartisan report on local government reform that she would have the state legislature adopt. She cited removal of appointed boards' power to impose taxes. Mr. Schellinger demurred, explaining that some ideas might be good for some localities but not for others. Both these candidates could be good for Indiana, but Ms. Thompson would be better.   Click here to read more...   Louisville Courier Journal EDITORIAL: April 27, 2008 A Hoosier choice When the campaign for the Democratic Party's nomination in this year's Indiana gubernatorial race began, 48-year-old architect Jim Schellinger seemed to have a lot of advantages -- more money with which to campaign, more endorsements from Democratic officeholders, more business background about which to brag. Since then, his opponent -- 55-year-old Jill Long Thompson, a former member of the U.S. House and a U.S. undersecretary of Agriculture -- has run a vigorous campaign, taking stands and making proposals, while Mr. Schellinger has done a lot of listening. He leaves the impression that he has some difficulty deciding what his candidacy is specifically about. In the campaign's first and only debate, Ms. Thompson seemed more willing to answer questions directly. The race appears to be close: Thompson leads 47 percent to 41 percent, according to a poll released last week, with 12 percent still undecided. With Ms. Thompson, you know what you are getting. She has had a significant public career, and she is willing to confront, clearly and directly, major issues facing Indiana. Mr. Schellinger, by contrast, tries to make a virtue out of not being a politician, as if years of personal and positive involvement in government somehow should be held against his opponent. Maybe familiarity with public process was what made it possible for Ms. Thompson to identify quickly and specifically, when asked, the one recommendation from a recent bipartisan report on local government reform that she would have the state legislature adopt. She cited removal of appointed boards' power to impose taxes. Mr. Schellinger demurred, explaining that some ideas might be good for some localities but not for others. Both these candidates could be good for Indiana, but Ms. Thompson would be better.   2008-04-27T17:46:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/journal_gazette_endorsement_long_thompson_for_governor/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/journal_gazette_endorsement_long_thompson_for_governor/   So, like the presidential race, the Democratic gubernatorial primary may well be less about issues and more about leadership, experience and, frankly, ability to win in November. On those counts, Long Thompson would be the better nominee.   Click here to read more...   Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette  Editorial: Long Thompson for governor Published Sunday, May 27   While the presidential race has understandably captured most of the attention in Indiana primary campaigns, Hoosier Democrats will also cast ballots in the most hotly contested race for the party's gubernatorial nomination since 1980 - a race that, in any other year, would dominate political attention.   Like the presidential contenders, Jill Long Thompson and Jim Schellinger are both worthy candidates who generally agree more than they disagree on broad issues. Both want to overhaul economic development efforts; both would advocate for public education at a time when the incumbent governor and some other state leaders would work to undermine it; both would emphasize better-paying jobs and affordable health care; both have strong concerns with state government's leap into privatization of essential services. Both, in other words, would strongly contrast with Gov. Mitch Daniels. So, like the presidential race, the Democratic gubernatorial primary may well be less about issues and more about leadership, experience and, frankly, ability to win in November. On those counts, Long Thompson would be the better nominee. Long Thompson has governmental management and leadership experience that would serve Hoosiers well in the governor's office plus the political savvy Democrats will need to wage a competitive campaign against a formidable Republican incumbent. Schellinger, a South Bend native who runs an Indianapolis architecture firm, is a first-time candidate. A Whitley County native, Long Thompson, 55, represented northeast Indiana well in the House as the area's U.S. representative for three terms from 1989 to 1995. Perhaps more importantly, she has solid experience as a top government administrator, serving as U.S. undersecretary of agriculture in the Clinton administration for five years, overseeing 7,000 employees and a $10 billion budget. And, though many Hoosiers may have forgotten, she has experience in a statewide political campaign: In 1986, she ran - unsuccessfully - as the Democratic candidate against U.S. Sen. Dan Quayle. Two years later, she won his former congressional seat. She rightly recognizes Hoosiers' struggles with economic concerns as a top issue for the governor to address, and she understands the roles health care, taxes and overall quality of life play in stimulating economic development. As she campaigns throughout the state, "The No. 1 issue people talk about is the economy and jobs, and tied very close to that is health care affordability," Long Thompson said. "The state needs very different leadership on the economy." While Daniels will tout factories lured to the state, Long Thompson points out that the state lost 16,200 jobs in March, with the unemployment rate topping 5 percent. And Hoosiers' average wage is 90 percent of the national average. Long Thompson would also be a good advocate for public schools. She is concerned that current state law uses standardized testing to punish schools rather than to help educate children. And she would make sure test scores are not used to evaluate teachers. The former congresswoman, who now lives in Marshall County, rightly expresses concern about the Daniels administration's move to privatize a number of state functions, including operating the Indiana Toll Road and determining welfare eligibility. "The problem with privatization," she correctly notes, "is you have to write in a profit margin, and that results in a lower level of service." A former Valparaiso City Council member, she understands the concerns facing Indiana local governments and would work to overhaul the state's tax structure. For his part, Schellinger, 48, is knowledgeable about the issues and problems surrounding the recent property tax legislation. "The governor helped significantly to create the problem," he said of last year's high property taxes. "It happened on his watch. He sat idly by." Schellinger has developed in-depth plans in the areas of the economy, health care, education and government reform that are remarkably detailed, especially for a first-time candidate. Among his proposals is to adopt an "education first" budget that would essentially set an adequate budget for education before dealing with other spending issues. Polls show the two candidates are in a statistical dead heat, so the vote of every Hoosier Democrat has potential to make a difference on May 6. Democrats are expected to turn out in record numbers with the opportunity to cast a vote for president that could actually influence the outcome. They should remember that their nominee for governor is also vastly important, and they should look into the campaign positions and experience of both Long Thompson and Schellinger. The race will likely come down to leadership, experience and flat-out campaigning ability. Either would be a good candidate, but Long Thompson has the advantage 2008-04-27T17:38:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/news_sentinel_endorsement_long_thompson_in_governors_race/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/news_sentinel_endorsement_long_thompson_in_governors_race/   Long Thompson stands out for two reasons.   One is her fiscal sensibleness. As a member of Congress, she never voted for a tax increase and says she would behave similarly as governor. That means she would have to do all she wants to do with existing revenue, a refreshing thought.   The other is her political and government experience. As a U.S. representative and under- secretary of agriculture, she knows how the system works, and she would make use of that knowledge not only as governor but as a candidate against Daniels. Schellinger has no political experience, and it shows. He was the choice of the Democratic establishment but has been fought to a standstill by Long Thompson. He might get surprised by the governor during the campaign - she won't be.   Click here to read more...   Editorial: Fort Wayne News Sentinel: Article published Apr 25, 2008 Long Thompson in governor's race She has better fiscal sense and the political experience that counts.   Democratic gubernatorial candidates Jill Long Thompson and Jim Schellinger are both personable campaigners and likeable people, and they are united in their utter conviction that the state has been on the road to ruin under Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels. If Democrats want their best shot at kicking Daniels out of the governor's office, they should opt for Long Thompson.   She and Schellinger have similar - but not identical - positions on the issues they identify as most important - chiefly jobs, the economy and education. On the economy, for example, Long Thompson would change the state's tax structure to provide incentives for companies to create jobs. She would encourage pools to buy health insurance. She would re-emphasize vocational education in high schools. Schellinger would provide state funding for advanced manufacturing training and adult education for workers. He would create a state-managed health care pool for small businesses. He would emphasize education by submitting a separate budget for that to the General Assembly.   Whichever candidate wins will have the challenging task of picking apart Daniels' record while simultaneously trying to build up statewide name recognition. The governor will be vulnerable on some issues - he has done a lot in a very short period. But he can also point to an economy much better than the ones in surrounding states.   Long Thompson stands out for two reasons.   One is her fiscal sensibleness. As a member of Congress, she never voted for a tax increase and says she would behave similarly as governor. That means she would have to do all she wants to do with existing revenue, a refreshing thought.   The other is her political and government experience. As a U.S. representative and under- secretary of agriculture, she knows how the system works, and she would make use of that knowledge not only as governor but as a candidate against Daniels. Schellinger has no political experience, and it shows. He was the choice of the Democratic establishment but has been fought to a standstill by Long Thompson. He might get surprised by the governor during the campaign - she won't be   2008-04-26T22:26:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/maggie_kernan_endorses_long_thompson_for_governor/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/maggie_kernan_endorses_long_thompson_for_governor/   ARGOS, Ind. - Joining the growing chorus of Hoosiers backing her candidacy, today former Indiana First Lady Maggie Kernan officially endorsed Jill Long Thompson for Governor. "I have known Jill for many years and am confident that she has all the qualities needed to make an outstanding Governor. Throughout her career she has worked to make a positive difference in the lives of all the people she has served and time and again, she has done this successfully," said Kernan.  "Jill is known for her vision, integrity and common-sense approach to getting things done. Her leadership is what we need  now in Indiana."   "Maggie Kernan is a good as it gets," said Long Thompson. "Besides being a business executive, she has committed a great deal of her life to making her community and her state a better place for its citizens. I am truly honored to have someone of Maggie's caliber stand with me."   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: April 24, 2008                                                                                                                     MAGGIE KERNAN ENDORSES LONG THOMPSON FOR GOVERNOR   ARGOS, Ind. - Joining the growing chorus of Hoosiers backing her candidacy, today former Indiana First Lady Maggie Kernan officially endorsed Jill Long Thompson for Governor. "I have known Jill for many years and am confident that she has all the qualities needed to make an outstanding Governor. Throughout her career she has worked to make a positive difference in the lives of all the people she has served and time and again, she has done this successfully," said Kernan.  "Jill is known for her vision, integrity and common-sense approach to getting things done. Her leadership is what we need  now in Indiana."   "Maggie Kernan is a good as it gets," said Long Thompson. "Besides being a business executive, she has committed a great deal of her life to making her community and her state a better place for its citizens. I am truly honored to have someone of Maggie's caliber stand with me."   ### 2008-04-25T20:56:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/klinker_micon_lafayette_teamsters_back_jill_long_thompson_for_governor/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/klinker_micon_lafayette_teamsters_back_jill_long_thompson_for_governor/   Candidate visits Alcoa plant in Lafayette to meet workers   LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Adding to her growing list of endorsements, today Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson welcomed the support of State Representatives Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) and Joe Micon (D-West Lafayette) as well as Teamsters local 1070 of Lafayette.   "As a retired teacher in the community, I feel that Jill Long Thompson's experience as an educator, farmer, Congresswoman and Under Secretary for Agriculture gives her a unique set of credentials in this campaign," said Klinker. "She has the proven ability to get things done and will make an outstanding Governor."   Click here to read more...   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: April 23, 2008                                                                                                         KLINKER, MICON, LAFAYETTE TEAMSTERS BACK JILL LONG THOMPSON FOR GOVERNOR Candidate visits Alcoa plant in Lafayette to meet workers   LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Adding to her growing list of endorsements, today Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson welcomed the support of State Representatives Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) and Joe Micon (D-West Lafayette) as well as Teamsters local 1070 of Lafayette.   "As a retired teacher in the community, I feel that Jill Long Thompson's experience as an educator, farmer, Congresswoman and Under Secretary for Agriculture gives her a unique set of credentials in this campaign," said Klinker. "She has the proven ability to get things done and will make an outstanding Governor."   "Jill really understands what it takes to grow and diversify the economy," said Micon. "Her vision for strengthening our education system, improving access to health care and updating our infrastructure will unlock our economic potential and help create and secure good-paying jobs throughout Indiana."   In addition to the state legislators, Teamsters Local 1070 also announced their support of Long Thompson. The Lafayette local joins five other Indiana Teamsters locals which endorsed her candidacy last week.   "I want to thank Representatives Klinker and Micon for their support and their trust in me. I also want to thank the men and women of Local 1070 for this commitment," added Long Thompson. "Together, we can put Indiana back on track and secure the long term prosperity of all Indiana citizens and communities."   ###   2008-04-23T14:01:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/northwest_area_legislators_endorse_long_thompson_for_governor/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/northwest_area_legislators_endorse_long_thompson_for_governor/   EAST CHICAGO, Ind. - Calling her the best qualified candidate to fight for Indiana's working families, today five prominent leaders from Northwest Indiana joined the growing number of Hoosiers supporting Jill Long Thompson for Governor.   At a campaign rally in East Chicago, State Senator Karen Tallian (D-Portage), State Representative Charlie Brown (D-Gary), State Representative Linda Lawson (D-Hammond), State Representative Dan Stevenson (D-Highland) and State Representative Mara Candelaria Reardon (D-Munster) all formally endorsed Long Thompson's candidacy.   Click here to read more...   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: April 22, 2008                                                                                                                       NORTHWEST AREA LEGISLATORS ENDORSE LONG THOMPSON FOR GOVERNOR   EAST CHICAGO, Ind. - Calling her the best qualified candidate to fight for Indiana's working families, today five prominent leaders from Northwest Indiana joined the growing number of Hoosiers supporting Jill Long Thompson for Governor.   At a campaign rally in East Chicago, State Senator Karen Tallian (D-Portage), State Representative Charlie Brown (D-Gary), State Representative Linda Lawson (D-Hammond), State Representative Dan Stevenson (D-Highland) and State Representative Mara Candelaria Reardon (D-Munster) all formally endorsed Long Thompson's candidacy.   "At a time when Indiana is struggling, Jill is the only candidate offering real solutions to get us moving again. She has plans to grow the economy, reduce the price of gas, improve access to health care and strengthen our schools," said Rep. Brown, who spoke on behalf of the group. "Jill is exactly the person Northwest Indiana needs right now."   Long Thompson has secured a number of key endorsements in throughout her campaign including five Indiana Teamsters locals, the United Steelworkers, the Service Employee International Union, Communication Workers of America, the American Federation of Government Employees, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, the United Transportation Union and Local #446 of Association of Federal, State, County and Municipal Employees.    ### 2008-04-22T21:47:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_renews_call_for_immediate_relief_at_the_pump/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_renews_call_for_immediate_relief_at_the_pump/   Democratic candidate says Hoosiers need relief now   ARGOS, Ind. - Today, as the price of gas in Indiana hit an all-time high of $3.65 or higher in some locations, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson renewed her call for immediate relief at the pump. "With the price of a gallon of gas jumping by 20 cents or more just today, it's clear, now more than ever, that all of our leaders must come together and take immediate action," said Long Thompson, who was campaigning in East Chicago today. "Gas prices have become unbearable for too many working families."   Click here to read more.   NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release: April 22, 2008                                                                                                                      LONG THOMPSON RENEWS CALL FOR IMMEDIATE RELIEF AT THE PUMP   Democratic candidate says Hoosiers need relief now   ARGOS, Ind. - Today, as the price of gas in Indiana hit an all-time high of $3.65 or higher in some locations, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson renewed her call for immediate relief at the pump.   "With the price of a gallon of gas jumping by 20 cents or more just today, it's clear, now more than ever, that all of our leaders must come together and take immediate action," said Long Thompson, who was campaigning in East Chicago today.   "Gas prices have become unbearable for too many working families."   Earlier this month, after Governor Daniels' sales tax increase took effect, Long Thompson proposed placing a cap on sales taxes that are collected on fuel.  Indiana is one of only seven states, including California, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Michigan, and New York that currently applies a sales tax to the sale of gasoline.   Long Thompson's plan would place a trigger in state law that would automatically suspend the sales tax on the portion of sales price exceeding $2.75 per gallon. At $3.65 a gallon, her plan would save Hoosier motorists between $150 and 175 million per year.   "Today, I call upon Governor Daniels, my primary opponent Jim Schellinger and all the members of the General Assembly to join my call for immediate relief to this growing crisis," added Long Thompson. "Hoosiers need help now."   Long Thompson is the only candidate for Governor supporting action to reduce the price of fuel. In fact, just yesterday she began urging Hoosiers to visit her campaign website (http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/) to sign an online petition to demand Governor Daniels take immediate action to lower the cost of fuel.   ###     2008-04-22T20:36:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_statement_on_earth_day/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_statement_on_earth_day/ "Growing up on my family's farm, my parents instilled in my brothers and me a healthy respect for the environment.  We learned very early on that for the long term success of our farm, we had to protect and care for the land, water and air.   Sadly, today we have a Governor that does not share those values. Time after time, Governor Daniels has chosen to ignore environmental considerations when making decisions about the future of the state.    Click here to read more.   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: April 22, 2008                                                                                                                     LONG THOMPSON STATEMENT ON EARTH DAY   ARGOS, Ind. - The following is a statement from Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson reflecting on today's celebration of Earth Day.   "Growing up on my family's farm, my parents instilled in my brothers and me a healthy respect for the environment.  We learned very early on that for the long term success of our farm, we had to protect and care for the land, water and air.   Sadly, today we have a Governor that does not share those values. Time after time, Governor Daniels has chosen to ignore environmental considerations when making decisions about the future of the state.    As we celebrate Earth Day, it's important that Hoosier demand leadership that balances our economic and environmental needs - because we shouldn't be forced to sacrifice one for the other.    That's why as Governor, I will encourage businesses to invest in "green" technology and jobs, promote renewable energy and hold companies that violate our environmental standards accountable.   I believe that to build the type of state we all want Indiana to be, we must continue to work together to not only grow and attract good-paying jobs, but to protect and improve the environment and our quality of life."   ### 2008-04-22T19:19:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_urges_hoosiers_to_support_sales_tax_cap_on_fuel/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/long_thompson_urges_hoosiers_to_support_sales_tax_cap_on_fuel/ ARGOS, Ind. - As the average price of a gallon of gas in Indiana nears the all-time high, today Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson called on Hoosiers to join her fight to reduce the cost of fuel.   Earlier this month, Jill Long Thompson offered a plan to stop charging sales tax on fuel once the pump price exceeds $2.75 per gallon, a move that would save Hoosier motorists about $100 million a year. Now, Long Thompson is urging Hoosiers to visit her campaign website (http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/) to sign an online petition to demand Governor Daniels take immediate action.   Click here to read more.   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: April 21, 2008                                                                                                                          LONG THOMPSON URGES HOOSIERS TO SUPPORT SALES TAX CAP ON FUEL Campaign creates online petition to show support for relief at the pump     ARGOS, Ind. - As the average price of a gallon of gas in Indiana nears the all-time high, today Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson called on Hoosiers to join her fight to reduce the cost of fuel.   Earlier this month, Jill Long Thompson offered a plan to stop charging sales tax on fuel once the pump price exceeds $2.75 per gallon, a move that would save Hoosier motorists about $100 million a year. Now, Long Thompson is urging Hoosiers to visit her campaign website (http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/) to sign an online petition to demand Governor Daniels take immediate action.   Once the petitions are collected, Long Thompson's campaign will deliver the petitions to the Governor's office.   "The average price of a gallon of gas is now $3.47, just a penny behind the all time high last year," said Long Thompson. "And with the increased sales tax that just went into effect, it's just another burden that the state is placing on working families' already tight budgets."   "We are one of the few states that even charges sales tax on fuel and in this time of economic uncertainty and high fuel prices, Hoosiers deserve a break," added Long Thompson. "Unfortunately, my opponents don't see it that way, so I urge all Hoosiers to sign the online petition and have their voices heard."   Along with California, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Michigan, and New York, Indiana is one of seven states that currently charges sales tax on fuel.   ### 2008-04-21T19:23:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/indiana_unemployment_rate_jumps_again/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/indiana_unemployment_rate_jumps_again/   Long Thompson worries about Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund   ARGOS, Ind. - As Indiana's economy continues to struggle, today Hoosiers received more unwelcomed news as the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the state lost 16,200 more jobs in March.   The report, which was released earlier today, found that Indiana's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate jumped from 4.6 percent in February to 5.1 percent in March. The half point increase ties Indiana with California and New Mexico with the second highest month-over-month increase nationally, behind Louisiana.   Click here to read more.   NEWS RELEASE   For Immediate Release: April 18, 2008                                                                                                               INDIANA UNEMPLOYMENT RATE JUMPS AGAIN Long Thompson worries about Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund   ARGOS, Ind. - As Indiana's economy continues to struggle, today Hoosiers received more unwelcomed news as the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the state lost 16,200 more jobs in March.   The report, which was released earlier today, found that Indiana's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate jumped from 4.6 percent in February to 5.1 percent in March. The half point increase ties Indiana with California and New Mexico with the second highest month-over-month increase nationally, behind Louisiana.   "Under this Governor, Indiana continues to hemorrhage jobs," said Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson.  "In just the past few weeks we have seen major layoffs and closings throughout the state, and unfortunately there is no end in sight."   "What makes matters even worse is because of Mitch Daniels' policies, the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund is being depleted," added Long Thompson. "Estimates now put the fund at or below $100 million - and as the unemployment rate grows this problem will become even worse."   In a news conference in January, Long Thompson first called attention to the solvency of Indiana's Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund. The fund had a balance of more than a billion dollars when Daniels took office.   "Along with Indiana's high rates of bankruptcies and home foreclosures, this just illustrates why we need an entirely new approach to economic growth," added Long Thompson.  "As Governor, I'll stand up for working families and by overhauling the entire tax structure, reforming our health care system, improving our schools and actively engaging all of our communities I'll ensure our economy's long term stability and vitality." ###   2008-04-18T21:51:00Z http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/teamsters_local_unions_endorse_long_thompson_for_governor/ http://www.hoosiersforjill.com/news/teamsters_local_unions_endorse_long_thompson_for_governor/   ARGOS, Ind. - Adding to the growing momentum of her campaign, today Jill Long Thompson welcomed the support of more than 20,000 working and retired men and women represented by the Teamsters Union in her bid for Governor.   Teamsters Locals 142 (Gary), Local 414 (Fort Wayne), Local 215 (Evansville) as well as Local 89 and Local 783 in Louisville, Kentucky, who also represent members in Southeast Indiana all endorsed Long Thompson today.   Click here to read more.  NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release: April 16, 2008   TEAMSTERS LOCAL UNIONS ENDORSE LONG THOMPSON FOR GOVERNOR   ARGOS, Ind. - Adding to the growing momentum of her campaign, today Jill Long Thompson welcomed the support of more than 20,000 working and retired men and women represented by the Teamsters Union in her bid for Governor.   Teamsters Locals 142 (Gary), Local 414 (Fort Wayne), Local 215 (Evansville) as well as Local 89 and Local 783 in Louisville, Kentucky, who also represent members in Southeast Indiana all endorsed Long Thompson today.   "At this critical time for our state and nation, our members felt it was important to support someone who has a proven record of fighting for working people," said Walt Lytle, the Secretary-Treasurer of Local Union 414 in Fort Wayne.   "We also strongly support Jill's agenda for bringing economic growth to all corners of the state and her plan to secure good-paying jobs for our families," added Lytle. "Jill is the best qualified person to lead Indiana forward, and we proudly endorse her candidacy."   The Teamsters join a long list of labor organizations backing Long Thompson. She has previously been endorse by the United Steelworkers, the Service Employee International Union, Communication Workers of America, the American Federation of Government Employees, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, the United Transportation Union and Local #446 of Association of Federal, State, County and Municipal Employees.     ### 2008-04-16T21:56:00Z