We have had some great pre-primary discussions with many Democrats from around the state running in the May 2nd primary election. With all 92 counties holding elections, it was impossible to get them all on, but I tried. This is the last Thursday show before the May 2nd primary and I'm super excited to have two fresh face candidates who are looking to make improvements in their communities.Turn in Thursday for Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of things.

Keeping the records for the council is not an easy job and anyone seeking this role needs to be very detailed oriented. This week we chat with Biaca about her campaign and what she is working on in South Bend.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Competition is good! The best way to increase voter interest and voter turn out is to have more contested races. And this year's primary season is full of great Democratic candidates looking to lead their cities. Yes, for the 3rd week in a row you will hear from another candidate running for Bloomington mayor and the first of two candidates running for Lawrence mayor.It is an exciting time to be civically engaged in our municipal elections. Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

Leading a city is not an easy task, no matter your history and experience. But those that step up to the plate have the opportunity to make positive changes for their city.

This week we will chat with Bloomington's home-grown candidate for Mayor Donald Griffin. Looking to make history, he is going to share his story of why he wants to lead Bloomington, IN.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things

It's Women's History Month! We often talk about the lack of adequate representation of women as elected officials at all levels of government. We know the numbers, but the only way to change this disparity is to run for office. This year we are seeing a record number of women running to be the mayors of their cities across Indiana. Women are recognizing they have all of the necessary skills to lead their communities and they are shaking off the notion they aren't ready. When we show up, we can win.

The possibilities are endless and we have an opportunity to move our communities forward. Tune in Thursday as we chat with two women who are in the race and running to lead. Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

With the primary season in full swing, it's time to check in with the party. So many of us wonder how we can do more to influence good policies and help stop bad policies. The Indiana Democratic party's purpose is supporting and electing the right people to write good policies. Party work is another way to get involved and become civically engaged. Join us this week when we chat with Indiana Democratic Party Chair, Mike Schmuhl.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.

How can you be a fresh face and a seasoned vet at the same time? My two guests this week are the embodiment of just that. Getting involved in civic engagement is more than simply running for office, it also means helping other candidates win, helping the party and doing all of the behind the scenes work that doesn't get accolades or pats on the back. Furthermore, that work gives you the necessary tools you will need whenever you decide to put your name on the ballot.

I'm excited about Marion County's primary rule change and in many cases candidates, incumbents and challengers, will have to earn their votes. That is why being in the community long before you put your name on the ballot is important.

If you are running for office, ask yourself, "What did I do to help other candidates get elected? What did I do to help the party? What did I do to engage the community?" My two guests this week have long lists of the work they have done.

Turn Left, Indiana Politics from the Left Side of Things.