The Rob Kendall Show

Today on The Rob Kendall Show, Rob dives into a growing political fight in Indiana as millions of dollars from outside groups flood into state Senate primaries. Rob breaks down reporting from The Indianapolis Star on the massive spending by political organizations backing challengers against Republican incumbents who voted against redistricting. The conversation looks at who is funding these races, why the money is being spent, and what it says about the priorities of political power players in Indiana.

Rob also takes a closer look at the idea that redistricting was supposed to help Republicans win more seats in Congress, especially in Indiana’s First Congressional District. Instead of investing in competitive races, Rob argues political groups are spending huge sums on internal political revenge campaigns. He questions whether the focus is really about better governance or simply about consolidating power within the party.

Later in the show, Rob discusses a newly announced tax amnesty program that will allow individuals and businesses with overdue Indiana taxes to pay them off without penalties. While the state expects the program could bring in hundreds of millions of dollars, Rob raises a bigger question: is this good fiscal policy, or simply a sign that lawmakers mismanaged the state’s finances and are now scrambling for revenue?

Rob also examines where that potential revenue will go. Because the money will be placed in the state’s general fund, lawmakers could spend it on anything they choose. Rob questions why the funds wouldn’t be used to offset future tax hikes or infrastructure costs instead of potentially funding new projects or government programs.

In the second half of the show, Rob digs into the growing debate over housing in Indiana. Drawing on reporting from Stateline and the Indiana Capital Chronicle, he explores how government policies—including low interest rates, massive stimulus spending, and immigration policy—have contributed to the current housing shortage. Rob also looks at new state laws that limit the ability of local communities to block high-density housing developments and what that could mean for neighborhoods across the state.

Plus, Rob previews a major segment coming up later in the program examining newly released body camera footage connected to the raid on Nathan Peternel’s home, a case tied to the arrest and conviction of Jonathan Peternel for crimes against children. The footage, Rob says, sheds new light on a disturbing situation that affected many people.

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Indiana's Governor talked up a recently passed bill designed to help Hoosiers with their utility bills. The reality is few Hoosiers will actually see much relief. What's next in the utility drama as most taxpayers continue to face rising costs? Rob Kendall, Abdul-Hakim Shabazz, and Jim Merritt discuss this and much more on Statehouse Happenings.

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Today’s episode of The Rob Kendall Show dives into several major political and policy issues unfolding across Indiana. The program opens with discussion of newly released body camera footage from the raid of the home of Life Church pastor Nathan Peternel. The footage raises serious questions about what church leadership knew regarding the crimes committed by Peternel’s son and whether key figures connected to the church, including Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith, were aware of the allegations earlier than publicly acknowledged. The conversation focuses on transparency, accountability, and what the public deserves to know moving forward.

The show also examines Governor Mike Braun’s recent ceremonial signing of legislation tied to utility billing in Indiana. While the administration frames the measure as a step toward affordability, the discussion explores whether the law will actually lower costs for Hoosiers or simply delay meaningful changes. The episode looks at the role of investor-owned utilities, the influence of political donations, and how regulatory decisions shape what residents ultimately pay on their monthly bills.

Another major topic is the growing controversy surrounding large-scale data center developments across Indiana. A recent proposal in Shelbyville, Indiana has sparked backlash after the city council approved annexation and zoning for hundreds of acres despite a negative recommendation from the local planning commission. The episode breaks down how these decisions are made, why residents are concerned about land use and transparency, and what the rise of artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure means for communities being asked to host these massive facilities.

The program also explores the broader policy vacuum surrounding data centers in Indiana. With communities making decisions case by case, the lack of statewide guidelines has created what some describe as a “Wild West” environment for development. The show examines how incentives, secrecy surrounding economic development deals, and the involvement of government agencies are fueling public frustration and skepticism about how projects are approved.

Finally, the episode features a major interview with Lebanon Mayor Matt Gentry. The conversation covers the controversial LEAP District, water infrastructure plans connected to large developments, and the role of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. The discussion also touches on broader political dynamics within Indiana’s Republican Party, including debates about party leadership and upcoming convention decisions.

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Today on The Rob Kendall Show, Rob dives into the heart of Indiana’s primary season and asks a question many voters should be asking every candidate: why are you running, and what exactly are you running to accomplish? With Senate primaries heating up, Rob discusses an article from Abdul Shabazz that highlights how voters aren’t focused on redistricting fights or political drama. Instead, people care about property taxes, schools, roads, and the rising costs affecting their communities. Rob argues that many challengers are offering slogans instead of real plans, and he presses the point that candidates should be forced to explain exactly what they would change and what trade-offs they’re willing to make.

From there, the conversation turns to property taxes and the lack of concrete proposals from many candidates promising reform. Rob argues that lowering property taxes requires difficult choices about spending and government priorities, and he challenges candidates to be honest about what programs or systems would need to change. He also highlights the role of local government structures, including fire territories, and argues that vague campaign messaging deprives voters of meaningful choices at the ballot box.

The show also tackles a controversial social media post from former President Donald Trump about Iran. Rob questions the tone and timing of the message, arguing that presidential rhetoric should maintain a level of professionalism and unity. He also raises broader concerns about the administration’s lack of explanation regarding the ongoing conflict with Iran and whether Americans have been given a clear case for how the situation benefits or protects the United States.

Rob then shifts to a growing concern in Indiana: the collapse of local media coverage. Reflecting on his time at WIBC, he explains how the elimination of Statehouse reporters and newsroom cuts have reduced oversight of government. According to Rob, politicians have noticed the shrinking press corps, and the lack of scrutiny has real consequences for accountability at both the state and local levels.

Finally, the show explores the broader media shakeup happening in Indianapolis following the purchase of RTV6 and the layoffs that followed. With another potential television merger looming, Rob argues that the traditional media model is disappearing and that journalists must rethink how they operate. Independent journalism, digital platforms, and direct audience support may be the future, and Rob explains why he believes new media models can better serve the public than corporate-owned newsrooms.

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Today’s episode of The Rob Kendall Show features a packed lineup with two major interviews and a deep dive into the latest political developments in Indiana. Rob opens the show by previewing a conversation with Dr. Jim Dalton, CEO of Damar, about the rise in autism diagnoses across Indiana and the United States. They discuss whether the increase is due to more children developing autism or improved diagnosis, and examine the growing controversy surrounding alleged abuse and fraud by for-profit providers offering autism services in the state. Dr. Dalton also explains the work of a task force formed by the governor to investigate the issue and how much it may be costing taxpayers.

Later in the hour, Rob is joined by Jacob Stewart, deputy opinion editor at The Indianapolis Star, for a spirited debate about two major local stories. First, they discuss the possibility of the Chicago Bears relocating to Hammond, Indiana, and whether bringing an NFL team closer to the region would benefit the state. They also tackle the mass firings at WRTV and debate whether viewers should feel sympathy for the employees affected, as well as the broader question of local ownership in media and what it means for local programming.

Rob also reacts to a new report from Politico’s Adam Wren that Governor Mike Braun’s Hope super PAC plans to spend $500,000 supporting challengers against incumbent state senators who opposed redistricting. Rob argues most incumbents are still likely to win because of the power of incumbency and questions whether the move will create long-term political fallout within the Indiana Senate.

The discussion also touches on the role of national politics in the fight over redistricting, including the influence of Donald Trump’s endorsement and how much weight it still carries in local races. Rob examines how candidates relying solely on Trump’s backing without addressing local issues may struggle with voters who care more about legislative performance than national political branding.

Finally, Rob explains why he originally endorsed Braun for governor and why he now feels frustrated with how property tax reform played out in Indiana. He argues that promises were made about using political action committee funds to pressure lawmakers on property taxes but that those efforts never materialized, while significant money is now being spent on redistricting battles.

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It has been a rough year and a half for Indiana Governor Mike Braun, which is already leading some to ask if he is vulnerable to a primary challenge in 2028, and who might be best positioned to take him on? Rob Kendall and Abdul-Hakim Shabazz discuss on Statehouse Happenings.

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Rob Kendall takes a deep dive into Indiana’s property tax system, using his own bill as a real-world example to show how everything he’s been warning about is now happening in real time. He explains how property tax bills work, why assessments drive everything, and how homeowners are effectively paying more based on rising valuations they never actually cash in on.

In this episode of The Rob Kendall Show, Rob breaks down the so-called 10% property tax “credit” and shows why it was designed to give short-term relief while long-term costs continue to rise. By walking through the math step by step, he demonstrates how increasing assessments quickly eat away at that credit, meaning many taxpayers are already seeing smaller savings than advertised—and in just a few years, that relief could disappear entirely.

Rob also explains how the system itself operates, from assessors determining home values to how those values are tied to neighboring property sales. He shares personal experiences challenging his own assessment and encourages homeowners to do the same, pointing out how errors and inconsistencies can directly impact what you pay.

Looking ahead, Rob outlines what could be coming next, including new local income taxes beginning in 2029 and the likelihood of school referendums that could further increase costs. He argues that the current system isn’t about lowering taxes, but about shifting how and when you pay them while giving the appearance of relief.

Throughout the episode, Rob challenges elected officials to defend the policy and invites them to explain the long-term impact on taxpayers, maintaining that everything he predicted is now visible in the numbers.

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On today’s episode of The Rob Kendall Show, we begin with a major case before the U.S. Supreme Court that could reshape the debate over birthright citizenship. The Court is hearing arguments on whether being born in the United States to parents who are not citizens automatically grants citizenship under the 14th Amendment. The case stems from an executive order signed after Donald Trump returned to the presidency, requiring at least one parent to be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident for a child born here to receive citizenship.

Adding another layer of intrigue, Trump has said he plans to attend the oral arguments in person. According to reporting cited on the show, there is no official record of a sitting president ever attending Supreme Court oral arguments in person during the nation’s roughly 250-year history. That makes this hearing not only legally significant, but potentially historic as well.

We also break down the constitutional roots of the debate, focusing on the language of the 14th Amendment and how courts have interpreted it over time. The precedent most often cited comes from the 1898 Supreme Court case United States v. Wong Kim Ark, which held that a child born in the United States to Chinese parents could be considered a citizen under the amendment. The show examines how that ruling shaped modern interpretations of birthright citizenship and why the current Court’s decision could have major national and state-level implications.

Back in Indiana, we dive into a striking report from the Indiana Capital Chronicle about the massive amount of unpaid caregiving happening across the state. According to research cited from AARP, roughly 1.1 million Hoosiers are currently acting as caregivers for parents, spouses, or other adults who require constant assistance. That work adds up to approximately 860 million hours of care every year.

When economists assign a market value to that labor using typical caregiving wages, the total comes to an estimated $16.1 billion annually in unpaid care provided by Indiana families. The numbers have grown significantly in recent years as the population ages and more people require long-term assistance. Many families are stepping in to provide that care themselves, often dedicating dozens of hours each week to helping loved ones.

The program also explores the policy challenges tied to those numbers, including the financial strain on Indiana’s Medicaid program and the reduction of payments to family caregivers. As government budgets tighten, many families caring for elderly relatives or individuals with severe disabilities face difficult choices about how to continue providing care while meeting everyday financial needs.

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Today on The Rob Kendall Show, we break down the growing frustration many Hoosiers feel with the current state of Indiana politics. From road funding problems to concerns about government spending and economic development practices, there’s a sense that the state’s long-standing Republican supermajority isn’t delivering the results voters were promised. At the same time, Democrats continue to struggle to present themselves as a viable alternative, often leaning into issues and messaging that many voters believe fall outside the mainstream.

We also discuss a controversy in Carmel over a proposed ICE administrative office. Despite the facility being described as overflow office space for administrative personnel, a public meeting drew roughly 200 people and sparked calls for protests and boycotts of local businesses. The debate highlights the broader political divide around immigration and border policy, an issue where polling has consistently shown strong public concern even while other national issues dominate headlines.

The conversation then shifts to Indiana’s Fourth Congressional District, where a closely watched Republican primary is shaping up. Incumbent Congressman Jim Baird, who has held the seat since 2018, is facing a challenge from State Representative Craig Haggard, with a third candidate, John Piper, also in the race. The contest is drawing attention because it pits a long-time officeholder against a challenger attempting to position himself as a fresh alternative.

We take a closer look at the records and controversies surrounding the candidates. Baird’s critics argue he has accomplished little in Congress and relies heavily on incumbency advantages, while Haggard has faced scrutiny over past political positions and his response to allegations involving AI-generated images connected to people in Micah Beckwith’s office. The discussion raises larger questions about political consistency, credibility, and what voters should expect from candidates seeking higher office.

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita has now entered the race with a high-profile endorsement of Haggard, adding another layer to the primary battle. Meanwhile, Baird has highlighted his endorsement from Donald Trump, underscoring how influential national political backing can be in local races. The show examines whether endorsements actually translate into better policy outcomes or simply reinforce the political status quo.

Altogether, today’s show looks at the bigger picture of Indiana politics: voter dissatisfaction with current leadership, the challenges Democrats face in presenting a credible alternative, and the internal battles shaping the Republican Party ahead of the next election cycle.

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Today on The Rob Kendall Show, Rob takes a deep dive into Indiana’s gas tax system and why drivers may soon see another increase at the pump. According to reporting highlighted by Hoosier Ag Today, the state’s gas tax structure means Hoosiers will pay more simply because gas prices are rising. Rob walks through how the federal tax, the state’s fixed gas tax, and the state sales tax on gasoline all stack together—creating a system where the government collects more money whenever prices climb.

Rob also revisits comments made by Indiana Governor Mike Braun earlier this month, when Braun said he would strongly consider suspending the gas tax if prices didn’t improve within two to three weeks and if conditions surrounding global oil supply didn’t stabilize. With prices still significantly higher than when that statement was made, Rob asks why the governor has not acted and why more media outlets and political figures aren’t pressing for answers.

Later in the show, Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun joins Rob to discuss Braun’s proposal to toll Interstate 70. Sakbun explains the potential consequences for communities across Indiana that rely on I-70 traffic for commerce and travel. If drivers begin avoiding the highway to skip tolls, it could have serious economic impacts for cities and towns along the corridor.

Rob also reacts to the “No Kings” protest held in Indianapolis over the weekend, which reportedly drew thousands of participants. After reviewing footage and statements from organizers and attendees, Rob raises questions about what the movement is trying to accomplish and whether the message resonates beyond the people already attending the rallies.

The conversation expands into a broader discussion about political activism, executive authority, and how protests influence public opinion. Rob compares the goals of different political demonstrations and argues that movements are most effective when their message is clear and grounded in persuading people who may not already agree with them.

All of that and more on today’s episode of The Rob Kendall Show, including a look at Indiana politics, public policy, and the issues impacting everyday Hoosiers.

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