By Niki Kelly | Editor-in-Chief
Did you know the use of the rooster as a Democratic party symbol originated in Greenfield in the 1840 campaign? The rooster was later adopted by the state and national Democratic parties.
The fledgling Lincoln Party has an emblem before a platform. And you will see it on your ballot.
A federal appellate panel threw out an order by the Trump administration to keep a Michigan coal-powered plant open. What does it mean for Indiana?
Plus, Congress is coming back but won’t have much time to get much done.
Thanks so for spending your morning with us!
Image from a sample ballot displaying the straight-party voting emblems for Indiana’s 2026 general election. (Image provided by Marion County clerk’s office)
Why Abe Lincoln in sunglasses will be on Indiana election ballots
By Tom Davies
An image of a sunglasses-wearing Abraham Lincoln will appear near the top of Indiana election ballots this fall.
That is the emblem submitted by the Lincoln Party to appear in the section for voters choosing to cast straight-ticket ballots — even though the newly formed party’s only candidate is Greg Ballard running for secretary of state.
A new federal court ruling threw out a federal order keeping a Michigan coal plant open. (Stock photo by Monty Rakusen via Getty Images)
Michigan wins coal plant case, but Indiana’s plants still remain open under federal order
By Niki Kelly
Two Indiana coal-burning power plants remain open under an order from the Trump administration. But a federal appeals court ruling could change that in the future.
The U.S. Department of Energy has repeatedly extended the lifespan of coal plants in five states, arguing the electricity generated at the facilities is needed to help address a national energy emergency.
NATIONAL NEWS
The U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., amid fog on Dec. 10, 2024. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)
Congress returns to session before midterms sprint, but no action expected on AI fears
By Jennifer Shutt
WASHINGTON — Both chambers of Congress return to Capitol Hill this week for a brief session before heading back to the campaign trail until mid-November.
The House will be in for one week and the Senate for three, giving Republicans little time to enact any laws or confirm nominees before voters decide whether to give them another two years in power.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Democracy Day: A guide to how Indiana makes its laws | Casey Smith
All the information you need to participate in Indiana’s democracy | Leslie Bonilla Muñiz and Casey Smith
Indiana leaders seek answers for surging fire truck costs | Axios Indianapolis
(Tenor)
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