Clinton, Bayh speak at Indiana Democratic Party fundraiser

He’s back.

More than a year after he crisscrossed Indiana stumping for his wife during the 2008 Democratic primary season, former President Bill Clinton returned to the state Saturday in Indianapolis.

Clinton was the keynote speaker at the annual Jefferson Jackson Day Dinner, a $125-per-seat fundraiser for the Indiana Democratic Party. Sen. Evan Bayh, D-Ind., and Rep. Andre Carson, D-7th, also spoke.

Clinton said he was grateful to Indiana and was glad to be back to the state that voted in favor of his wife Hillary in the Indiana Democratic Primary in May 2008.

Clinton focused his address on issues he believes the Democratic Party should and will solve, democratic goals he said concern American citizens.

“We must ask ourselves the questions important to all Americans,” Clinton said. “How can we rebuild the economy and bring back jobs to the middle class? How can we provide health care for citizens that’s affordable and quality? How can we protect our future generations from global warming?”

Former state Sen. Paul Bitz said he hopes the event will contribute to democratic success in Indiana.

“This event will help a lot with our party on a local and state level,” Bitz said. “A speaker as well-thought-of as Bill Clinton has also brought a lot of excitement to Indiana Democrats.”

Among the leaders was Evansville Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel, a potential 2012 gubernatorial candidate.

Weinzapfel said Indiana needs to make higher education a priority and provide opportunities after graduation.

“College should be affordable for all students and those who don’t come from traditional college-educated families,” Weinzapfel said. “We need to provide skills and job opportunities for Indiana students to keep talented Indiana students in our state.”

Roy Dominguez, Lake County sheriff and potential 2012 gubernatorial candidate, said a stronger economy will contribute to better opportunities for students.

“We need to build back our economy to continue to provide funding for state universities,” Dominguez said. “A strong economy could contribute to lower tuition costs and provide a dream for every child to attend college.”