The battle in Wisconsin between a Republican governor and Democratic legislators is getting most of the ink, but a similar situation is playing out in Indiana. In both cases, Democrats have hit the road to deny votes on controversial measures. In Indiana, a non-profit watchdog is using radio to ask its legislators to please return to work.
The group is called Aiming Higher Inc., and here’s how it describes itself: “Aiming Higher Inc. is a non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting innovative and cutting edge public policy solutions. We seek input from and engagement with all those interested in keeping Indiana moving forward.”
It may be non-partisan, but a quick glance at its position on the issues would seem to put it more in line with Republican rather than Democratic policies. In this case, it very much is endorsing Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels’ position over those of the departed Democrats.
The ad script reads, “Last Fall, Hoosiers spoke. They wanted a balanced budget, no tax increases and an education system that put the needs of children ahead of the needs of adults. House Democrats have fled the state and are hiding in an Illinois hotel instead of fulfilling their responsibilities to their constituents. They need to come back! If you are outraged at their behavior, call them at 1-800-382-9842 and tell them to come back to the Statehouse and do the job they were elected to do.”
RBR-TVBR observation: Radio is a quick, efficient and cost-effective way to get a message out rapidly, an especially useful tool when events in the political arena, or during a political campaign, are breaking fast. Stations with strong news and public affairs programming should make sure all political organizations are well aware of their services in getting out the word.
