Lake County, long a Democratic stronghold in deep-red Indiana, shows signs of a rightward shift. In the latest election, fewer residents across nearly every municipality voted Democratic, while President-elect Donald Trump made notable gains, even in historically blue cities and towns. Once a reliable base for Democratic candidates, Lake County’s changing political landscape raises questions […]
Gary
Posted inEducation
Gary Voters Keep Democrats in Key Seats for State and Federal Leadership
Democrats swept key races in Northwest Indiana on Tuesday, securing major wins for U.S. House and state legislature seats critical to Gary and the surrounding areas. Rep. Vernon Smith held on to his Indiana House District 14 seat, defeating Republican Ivan Ursery II handily, securing 72% of the vote. Smith, who was originally elected to […]
Posted inPolitics & Policy
‘Sick of the Divide’: What Drove Gary Residents to the Polls
Gary voters turned out amid cloud cover and rain showers on Election Day. While the presidential ticket pits Vice President Kamala Harris against former President Donald Trump, local contests also hold high stakes. Voters are choosing congressional representatives, deciding on a new governor, and weighing in on three critical statehouse races — each decision shaping […]
Posted inPolitics & Policy
In Gary, Residents Share Barriers and Frustrations Around Voting
Donna Brandon sat at the downtown bus stop, her face lined with worry. Despite her intention to vote, there was a catch: she still didn’t have a photo ID. “I want to vote,” she said. “I really do. I’m just having a hard time with my ID.” For her, the hurdles go beyond paperwork — […]
Posted inPolitics & Policy, State Government
Q+A with Ragen Hatcher and Leslie Dallner: Candidates for Indiana State Rep. District 3
Ahead of the upcoming election, Capital B Gary is giving readers the chance to hear directly from candidates appearing on their ballots. These candidates represent the interests of Gary and other Lake County residents and bring their unique perspectives and goals for the community. This year, incumbent Democratic state Rep. Ragen Hatcher faces Republican challenger […]
Posted inMoney
Popcorn World Thrives in Gary, Fueling Community with 250 Flavors Strong
When LeBarron Burton took over Popcorn World, he wasn’t just building a business — he was building a legacy in Gary. In a city where Black-owned businesses face challenges, Popcorn World has emerged as a beacon of hope. What started as a small shop has flourished under Burton’s leadership into a hometown favorite, drawing national […]
Posted inAir Pollution, Health, Maternal Health
Toxic Air, Limited Care: The Risks of Pregnancy in Gary
This series was produced as part of the Pulitzer Center’s StoryReach U.S. Fellowship. Kimmie Gordon sat in her car, watching the sky darken as she waited for her 15-year-old son, Kaleb, to finish football practice. It is one of five sports her teenager plays despite living with chronic asthma. Over an hour stretched on, but […]
Posted inEnvironmental Justice, Health
Gary’s Steel Industry Is Linked to Increased Health Risks and Lower Life Expectancy
Growing up in Gary, Dr. Beverly Lewis knew her family’s health issues were severe — but she didn’t know why. It wasn’t until years later, as a medical professional, that she connected the environmental hazards in her hometown to her family’s suffering. Her brother died of asthma. Her father, a former steelworker in East Chicago, […]
Posted inLocal Government, Politics & Policy, State Government
2024 General Election: Your Complete Voting Guide for Gary and Lake County
What’s on the ballot? What’s at stake? At the top of the ticket, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are vying for the presidency in a race that could have an enormous impact on the future of reproductive rights, the U.S. Supreme Court, and democracy itself. In the governor’s race between Mike […]
Posted inCriminal Justice, Local Government
Former Gary Mayor Jerome Prince Agrees to Release Conditions in Wire Fraud Case
The conditions of former Gary Mayor Jerome Prince’s release were set this week after he pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud charges for misusing campaign funds. Prince will be required to turn over his passport and will be restricted to travel within the continental United States. He posted an unsecured bond of $20,000 and will […]
