Why Linda Lawson Thinks She’s A ‘Great Match’ For Woody Myers

IBJ-THE RUNDOWN

by LINDSEY ERDODY

The Democrat had spent 20 years at the Indiana Statehouse and was ready to leave an environment she described at the time as “toxic.”

But then, this year, party officials started calling. And a week ago, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Woody Myers announced Lawson as his lieutenant governor running mate.

So what made her decide to come out of retirement?

“Woody, in one word,” Lawson said.

Lawson told IBJ that after talking to Democrats who were encouraging her to join the ticket and having conversations with Myers about his campaign and his position on issues, she “was convinced that it was a good idea.”

In addition to her time in the Legislature, Lawson has a background in law enforcement, working as a police officer for 24 years, and she also has experience serving on a school board.

She said her knowledge and skills are “a good match and a good blend” with Myers, whose background is in health care.

“I think between the two of us and our careers and our experience in life, we’re a great match,” Lawson said.

She told IBJ she has concerns about the state’s economy and the unemployment rate in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, and she wants to make sure Hoosiers feel safe and secure.

“I’m concerned about families, and I’m concerned that they can get back to work and provide for their family,” Lawson said. “I think [Myers’] background in business and medicine … we’re going to have our own house doctor.”

Fundraising has been a challenge for the campaign—Myers ended the quarter with only $22,000 cash on hand—but Lawson seemed optimistic that she could help in that area. The team plans to continue fundraising through phone calls and Zoom meetings.

“We run in different circles, so we’re not going to be overlapping a lot,” Lawson said.

FOOTNOTE:  Democratic State Sen. Eddie Melton, who formerly was a candidate for governor this year, has endorsed Myers.