Rupert Boneham considers run for Ind. governor

Rupert Boneham, the former tie dye shirt clad “Survivor” contestant and Indianapolis native, is considering a run for governor of Indiana, he said in a statement on his website, www.rupertforgovernor.com.

Boneham has formed an exploratory committee, often a first step in a run for office.
“I hope to make a final decision in the coming weeks but wanted to take time to discuss my decision with family, friends and the community,” Boneham said on his site.

Boneham said he was displeased with the current candidates for governor, which include U.S. Representative Mike Pence, R-Columbus, businessman Jim Wallace, R-Fishers, and former state House Speaker John Gregg, D-Sandborn.

“I do not see anyone that has an understanding of what daily life is like for many Hoosiers, nor anyone who appears to understand the harm that misguided government policies are doing to our communities,” Boneham said.

Campaign spokesman Sean Shepard said he is not aware of Boneham having any previous political aspirations, but the former “Survivor” contestant said he feels strongly about serving his state.

“He perceives that we’re headed in the wrong direction in a lot of areas,” Shepard said. “He reasons he can use his vast experience in the community to help.”

Boneham has spent much of his time after the show with a charity called Rupert’s Kids, which works with underprivileged children.

“By helping them become confident and productive members of society, they learn the value of education and a strong work ethic,” Boneham said. “Just as I have shown our youth these principles, I think it’s time that someone in the political sphere discusses them as well.”

Boneham said the primary reason he is considering a run for governor is to help bring efficiency to government.

Boneham has “definite ideas on the economy and on ensuring Indiana is (a) place people will want to bring their businesses,” Shepard said, as well as ideas for Indiana’s criminal justice system.

Boneham would like to adjust the system to better help people avoid lives in crime, Shepard said.

“I know, personally, I’ve seen what happens when people are sucked into the system,” he said. “Once you’re tagged, you’re tagged. Sometimes we’re destroying
lives over fairly innocuous things.”

Boneham said he will spend the next few weeks talking to Indiana residents to help him reach a decision.

“We can do better to ensure that every person in our state has the opportunity
to reach their full potential,” Boneham concluded.

Boneham first appeared in the 2003 season of “Survivor.” He filed with the Indiana Election Division this week as a Libertarian.

He is expected to speak at a press conference at 4 p.m today in Indianapolis.

— Jake New and Zach Ammerman