Dan Burton faces political rookie in bid for 14th term
For 26 years, Republican Dan Burton has represented the citizens of Indiana’s 5th District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The winds of change may not be blowing this term either.
Political newcomer Mary Etta Ruley faces the incumbent Burton, whose 13 consecutive terms on Capitol Hill mean he’s netted a diverse range of committee assignments and earned deep political capital.
Though her professional experience may be extensive – she currently owns and operates two businesses plus functions as president for the Center of Science and Innovation – Ruley has never held a government position in her lifetime.
But what Ruley says she has that Burton doesn’t is a new outlook, stemming from a background in education.
Burton, with his reputation as a hard-hitting conservative, has focused much of his recent attention on the issue of energy independence.
In a recent press release, Burton said: “We must adopt a comprehensive energy strategy that expands energy conservation, promotes renewable and alternative energy technologies and increases the supply of all forms of American energy.”
Other issues that Burton has found forthcoming this election are illegal immigration and education.
Ruley has been focusing more on the issues of health care, jobs, and the overall economy in Indiana. Her plans involve stopping outsourcing of jobs, reducing costs of health care and renegotiating trade agreements.
Ruley states on her website: “Prosperity, peace, progress and integrity are our highest priorities. I will aggressively fight to strengthen our economy, improve our education culture, and reverse the arrogant disregard shown our working Hoosier families.”
With only eight of his numerous sponsored bills in his 26 years being signed into law, some feel as if Burton has not taken his job seriously.
Recent polls show that it isn’t just Democrats who are giving Ruley the vote. Many Republicans have crossed over in the sprit of voting Burton out of office. Susan Barta, a campaign volunteer, said, “We feel she is going to be the candidate of choice. We’re very excited. There is true possibility for positive change in the 5th District.”
