Election day is fast approaching, and it is important to educate yourself on the candidates on the ballot before you show up at the polls. Terre Haute has two candidates to choose from, and your vote is a deciding factor in what Terre Haute will look like for the next four years. Are you ready for change? Do you want to see current initiatives continued? Read below for an analysis of and information about the plans of the candidates at hand.
Mayor Duke Bennett is the longest-serving mayor in Terre Haute history, having held his seat since 2008. Born and raised in Terre Haute, Bennett’s website states that he is passionate about helping his community.
Bennett has four poles supporting his campaign, according to his website. These include “financial responsibility,” “job growth,” “public safety,” and “quality of life.”
According to Bennett’s website, under his leadership, Terre Haute has a balanced budget and is no longer in deficit. In terms of job growth, Bennett states that he has led economic growth in Terre Haute and “works tirelessly” to attract new jobs and businesses.
Additionally, Bennett claims his top priority is community safety. His website states that he has raised the salaries of first responders and has provided up-to-date equipment. His website also states that he remains dedicated to improving the quality of life for the citizens of Terre Haute.
Challenger Brandon Sakbun claims that change is necessary in order to prosper. Sakbun served in the United States military as a second Lieutenant, and states that this, along with his background in finance, makes him the ideal candidate for mayor.
On Sakbun’s website, he lays out his main priorities and the plans to accompany them. First, he outlines a plan to increase talent retention in Terre Haute in order to avoid young people leaving the city. “I will prioritize working with regional employers, university partners, the school corporation, and upskill programs to provide workforce development programs for all of our citizens,” wrote Sakbun. Along the same line, Sakbun also says he prioritizes small businesses.
Learning about the candidates on the ballot is a great first step to becoming an active and politically involved citizen. Watch debates, read articles, and learn more on the candidates’ website. Who you vote for has a direct impact on what your city looks like, so make sure you are electing a candidate who is standing up for the city you would like to see. It’s election day, so make sure you get out and vote!
