Jill Long Thompson chooses lawmaker from southern Indiana as running mate

by Nora Gathings (hsgathings@wsbt.com)

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Jill Long Thompson Dennie Oxley

Democratic candidate for governor Jill Long Thompson has chosen State Rep. Dennie Oxley (left) as her running mate. (WSBT photo)

By Jim Pinkerton

Story Created: Jun 16, 2008 at 7:55 PM EST

Story Updated: Jul 22, 2008 at 12:02 PM EST

SOUTH BEND — A new team hopes to put a Democrat back in the Governor's mansion. Candidate Jill Long Thompson named her first choice, Representative Dennie Oxley as her running mate. She says voters outside of Southern Indiana may not know him now, but that will change.

WSBT News showed people pictures of Republican Governor Mitch Daniels, Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman, and their Democratic challengers Jill Long Thompson and Representative Dennie Oxley.

Everyone could identify Governor Daniels. Fewer people could identify his Democratic challenger, but no one could put a name to one face.

That face was Dennie Oxley's. He's Long Thompson's running mate.

"From January to April of this year, Indiana has lost nearly 30,000 jobs. It is time we demand more," said Oxley.

The Crawford County representative has served in the Indiana House since 1998. He's the Democratic majority whip but hasn't taken a leadership role in passing legislation. However, he says he's ready improve the economy through education.

"At the same time, I will try my best to shepherd through the economic plan or stimulus plan if you will, will also do my best to ensures schools are properly funded," said Oxley.

Long Thompson says his ability to govern the state if necessary and his hometown made him the first choice.

"I think the geographic diversity was important to reflect we are committed to all 92 Indiana counties no matter how large, no matter how small," said Long Thompson.

With her running mate in place, Long Thompson will start competing with Governor Daniels over the airwaves by the end of summer.

Voters say making these faces more familiar could generate more votes.

"I think if they don't have any advertising, you aren't going to know who they are and you pick the one you've seen the most," said a voter.

Long Thompson will kick off her statewide campaign next week. She will also start airing TV ads next month.

We called Daniel's campaign to get their reaction to the announcement, but didn't get a response.

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