Hill visits Monroe County Democratic Headquarters

“Hoosiers for Hill,” “Ellsworth, United States Senate” and “Standing Together for Health Insurance Reform” plaster the walls of the Monroe County Democratic Party Headquarters on the corner of Third and Grant streets.

A prominent sign reminds everyone that there are only 22 days left until election day.
Volunteers are glued to computers and cell phones, typing away and calling constituents. The atmosphere is urgent and dedicated.

Baron Hill, the democratic incumbent of the 9th District seat, visited this busy workplace Monday.

“Thank you for what you’re doing,” Hill said to those working for his campaign. “You don’t know how much this means to me.”

Hill told everyone he is currently ahead in the polls, though not as much as he was in his last election.

He reminded everyone that the race between him and Todd Young is currently considered a toss-up by most political analysts.

“They don’t know the secret weapon that’s sitting in this room,” Hill said.

Hill told the story of an unplanned visit he made to the Obama campaign headquarters in Columbus, Ind., in 2008. He said he spoke to a woman there who had never worked for a campaign in her life, but who had been moved by the cause.

“You’re finding that person in Columbus and Indiana, identifying her and getting her to the polls,” Hill said.

After thanking his volunteers, Hill had to leave for another appointment in Paoli, Ind.
Jennifer Pike, an IU senior and president of Students for Baron Hill, said the visit showed Hill cares about the Bloomington community.

“I’ve worked with Baron Hill in his office, and he’s really an inspiring person,” Pike said. “I think we have a very important choice in this election.”

Jordan Emily, an IU sophomore and volunteer at the Democrats’ headquarters, said he first heard Hill speak at his high school when he was a senior and continues to be inspired to work for his campaign.

“It’s really important that people like Baron Hill get re-elected to help this country move forward,” Emily said. “Todd Young is not from the district. He came from Carmel to a place he himself called ‘middle of nowhere,’ which I think shows a complete lack of respect for the district.”

Emily said Hill’s short visit was very important to him and the other volunteers.
“It’s always good to know how much he appreciates what we do here,” Emily said.
“We understand how important it is to make sure he’s re-elected.”