State senate candidates competing for District 41

Election day is Tuesday. Voters in Bartholomew and Johnson counties will be deciding next week between Republican incumbent Sen. Greg Walker and Democrat Ross Thomas for Indiana Senate District 41.

Republican incumbent State Sen. Greg Walker was born and raised in Columbus. He attended Indiana University and earned a degree in finance, later working toward his masters in business administration. He and his wife Allison have four children. He has worked in taxation and finance, and as a revenue agent for the state of Indiana. He now does business consulting and concentrates on the state senate.

He has held the senate seat for 12 years and that was his first run for office.

Democrat Ross Thomas, grew up in Jennings County and holds a degree in political economy from Tulane and a law degree from Indiana University. He has a law office in Indianapolis and lives in Columbus with his wife Amy and their three children. He serves on the board of the local Little League Babe Ruth League and this is his first run for office.

We asked the candidates what the general assembly’s role should be when it comes to education and funding.

Walker says he’s for local control.

Thomas says he has a problem with school vouchers.

We asked the candidates about how legislators should approach the issue of abortion.

Walker says that lawmakers are focused on safety.

Thomas says the state has to follow federal law.

We asked the candidates about their thoughts on low-level felons serving time in county jails instead of the state prison system.

Walker says its a double-edged sword that impacts local budgets.

Thomas says we need to consider why people are in jail.

The general election is Nov. 6th.