House Democrats flee Indiana, found in central Illinois
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (WAVE) – Several dozen Indiana House Democrats are in hiding, trying to derail a Republican backed bill that some call a union buster. Some of those Democrats say they are standing up for the middle class.
Our sister station in Indianapolis, WTHR, found out that many of them are staying in central Illinois. The lawmakers would not answer questions as they dashed to their car. Some had to buy clothes at a sporting goods store on the last minute trip.
Outside a Comfort Inn in Urbana, IL, the license plates said it all. Several of the cars had the Indiana state legislature plates.
Republicans make up 60 of Indiana's 100 House seats, but only 63 lawmakers were there on Tuesday. The labor bill is in the full House now, and without those 37 Democrats, they can't act.
Hundreds of union workers and their supporters made their appearance known on Tuesday. While many were chanting outside the House chambers, roll call was happening inside.
"I think this is a walkout," said House Speaker Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis.) "I can't recall a time when we've come in to take attendance in the morning and the minority party has not even shown up for that."
Only three of 40 House Democrats showed up. Rep. Terri Austin (D-Anderson) was one of them.
"I'm not prepared to tell you where they are, but I can assure you that all the Democrats are working very hard," said Austin.
Austin said they are reviewing 27 bills with dozens of amendments.
"What we are trying to do is figure out a way to save the state from this radical agenda that has been forced upon us and that actually we've been given no opportunity to help shape or amend," said Austin.
Late Tuesday, we learned at least 35 Indiana Democrats are hiding out in central Illinois. The absent lawmakers are vowing not to return until a compromise is reached.
"Everybody's trying to do what they think's best," said Dale Grubb, Democratic Caucus Chairman.
The so-called "right-to-work" bill would mean you don't have to join a union in order to work in the Hoosier state. Supporters say it would encourage businesses to expand in Indiana, while opponents argue it would weaken unions and drive down wages.
"It's a perfectly legitimate part of the process even the smallest minority, and that's what we've heard from the last couple of days has every right to express its strength of its views and I salute those who did," said Gov. Mitch Daniels.
Daniels says he will not send the state police after the absent Democrats.
"I chose to believe that our friends in the minority, having made their point, will come back and do their duty, their jobs that they are paid to do," said Daniels.
Those Democrats staying in central Illinois say they are waiting for a call from Gov. Daniels before they consider returning. WAVE 3 called two House Democrats from southern Indiana multiple times on Tuesday, but they did not return our calls.
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