INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana gubernatorial candidate Brad Chambers’ campaign is likely to receive tens of thousands of dollars from an upcoming fundraiser hosted by racing legend Michael Andretti, adding to the Republican hopeful’s support from the state’s top business leaders.
While a common event for a political candidate, it’s Chambers’ previous working relationship with the Andretti empire that’s causing some to raise eyebrows.
Chambers — who is seeking the Republican nomination — led the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) as Secretary of Commerce until he stepped down from that position in August. While there, Andretti Autosport received millions in contracts, grants and tax incentives.
“It’s purely a function of — Brad worked for a couple of years on the deal … I think they’re supporting someone they’d see as being a terrific governor,” said Marty Obst, senior strategist for Chambers’ campaign.
Accepting money in this way is legally sound, said Andrew Downs, a former political science professor at Purdue University Fort Wayne, but some might have ethical concerns, given Chambers ran an agency that brokered deals with Andretti.
“This is very common. When you work with somebody professionally, you develop a relationship. If they liked the work you’ve done, that is usually a place to go for contributions to a political campaign — you’ve got to raise money, and you raise money within the network,” Downs told the Indiana Capital Chronicle. “But that will, of course, not look so good if you are involved in government money, and that was your business relationship.”
Admission to the evening reception, scheduled for Tuesday on the northwest side of Indianapolis, starts at $50 per person, according to an event handout obtained by the Indiana Capital Chronicle. Three additional sponsorship levels offer additional perks.
Couples who give at least $10,000, for example, are invited to a private cocktail reception and receive “VIP swag.” Food, drinks, music and access to a fireside chat with Chambers and Andretti are offered to all of those in attendance.
In 2022, the IEDC committed up to $19 million in the form of conditional tax credits, as well as up to $125,000 in training grants, to incentivize the Andretti company to bring its universal motorsports headquarters to central Indiana — specifically the Fishers area. The IEDC said Andretti’s investment will create up to 500 new jobs by the end of 2026.
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