By The Statehouse File
INDIANAPOLIS – Josh Owens, CEO of the Indianapolis-based tech firm SupplyKick, on Monday became the second Democrat to get into the race for governor.
“I’m running for governor now because I believe in an Indiana where teachers are paid what they deserve and where all are welcomed, respected and protected,” Owens said in a statement. “We need a leader who will ensure our state budget, policies and laws reflect a bold and inclusive vision for collective Hoosier success.”
The 34-year-old Shelbyville native joins former state health commissioner Dr. Woody Myers in the race to compete against Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb, who is seeking a second term. A third Democrat, state Sen. Eddie Melton of Gary, also is weighing a bid for governor.
At SupplyKick – which has become one of the state’s fastest growing companies by helping retailers market their wares on Amazon – Owens has put his support for good wages into practice by guaranteeing employees earn a minimum annual salary of $50,000.
“Today, many Indiana teachers have to work second jobs and even then they spend their own money on classroom supplies,” Owens said. “As a businessman, I know every Hoosier in the workplace matters, and leadership is required to solve this problem and finally pay them fairly.”
If elected, Owens would be the first openly gay governor of Indiana. But he said he’s hoping the campaign will focus on issues – especially education.
“I’m passionate about making Indiana the best state it can be and giving every single Hoosier the economic, education and community support they deserve,” Owens said.
For more on this story, see Tuesday’s Republic.
