Besides a candidate running in Indianapolis that works as a union boss in Lake County, a candidate whose first headline noted he didn’t live in the district, a primary against their own Ron Herrell, and a law school student whose only claim to fame is that he shares a name with a notorious train robber, House Democrats haven’t seen a lot of people wanting to step up and run on their ticket next fall. That’s completely understandable, especially in light of a national atmosphere that is turning against Democrats and candidates who oppose reform.

Republicans, on the other hand, have had many (and many high profile) candidates step up. Among them have been former DLGF Commissioner Cheryl Musgrave against Gail Riecken, former DNR Commissioner Kyle Hupfer against Scott Reske, Warrick County Coroner Ron Bacon against Dennis Avery, Kokomo City Councilman Mike Karickhoff against Ron Herrell (assuming he makes it out of the primary), veteran (and 2-time Purple Heart recipient in Iraq) Luke Abbott against Shelli VanDenBurgh, Bob Heaton against Vern Tincher (Tincher just eked out a victory by only a few hundred votes over Heaton in 2008), Dr. Sue Ellspermann against House Majority Leader Russ Stillwell, high school administrator Wendy McNamara against Trent Van Haaften, and business owner Kim Builta against Terri Austin (just this week).

Add to that list today Attica Clerk-Treasurer Sharon Negele against Democrat Caucus Chair Dale Grubb. Grubb has been in office for over two decades, a short time only when compared to Pat Bauer’s 40 years. Besides a seat in the front of the chamber, Grubb has little to show for his time as a legislator. And with most long-time legislators, there’s a growing concern that he’s lost touch.

From WLFI-TV:

Negele says she wants to find ways to reduce unemployment and improve the infrastructure in the area without causing a financial burden on citizens.

“I need to listen to the citizens that’s the most important thing. I need to listen to what their needs are. I want smart legislation. I want legislation that doesn’t create additional burdens on our citizens and our local units of government. My experience in a local unit of government will really be helpful in those particular areas,” said Negele.

Negele has served as Attica Clerk-Treasurer since 2003.

Especially on the heels of last night’s GOP successes, 2010 is going to be a fun year.