In 2006, Indiana contributed substantially to the new Democratic majority in the House. Specifically, Indiana's 2nd, 8th, and 9th Districts turned from R to D. This year, a new district might be in play. In Indiana's 4th District, Democratic candidate Nels Ackerson has raised $134,000 for his first quarter, this is a new Indiana record for Congressional challengers.
This is probably the most significant challenge faced by incumbent Republican Steve Buyer since his election in 1993.
As a voter in the 4th District, my impression is that nobody is wild about Buyer. There is a fair amount of Republican brand-loyalty, but that is fading here as it is everywhere else. There simply has not been an adequately funded Democratic challenger in quite some time. Apparently that is going to change this cycle.
Just as important, Mr. Ackerson is a candidate of substance. He is an accomplished lawyer with a rural background. In the early 80s, he spent 3 years in Egypt, opening the first American law office in that country.
He has also made a name for himself representing individuals against government and large companies in litigation involving protecting property rights against eminent domain actions and the like.
For those who are interested, here is the IN-04 category on my blog.
And, of course, Mr. Ackerson welcomes contributions to his campaign.