Mike Pence Expected To Tell ‘Indiana’s Story’

Mike Pence
Republican Vice Presidential Nominee Gov. Mike Pence of Indiana looks out over the convention floor during a sound check before the third day of the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Wednesday, July 20, 2016. (AP Photo/) Mark J. Terrill / AP Photo
Mike Pence
Republican Vice Presidential Nominee Gov. Mike Pence of Indiana looks out over the convention floor during a sound check before the third day of the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Wednesday, July 20, 2016. (AP Photo/) Mark J. Terrill / AP Photo

Mike Pence Expected To Tell ‘Indiana’s Story’

WBEZ brings you fact-based news and information. Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the stories that matter.

When Indiana Gov. Mike Pence takes the stage tonight to deliver his vice-presidential acceptance speech, he’s not expected to shy away from touting his state’s robust economy.

And why should he?

Indiana Lt. Gov. Eric Holcomb says it’s one of the reasons why Donald Trump picked him as his running mate.

“It’s an honor that Gov. Pence has been selected. It’s in large part because of the state of Indiana, the shape that we’re in. It’s a credit to Gov. Mike Pence and his leadership,” Holcomb told WBEZ on Wednesday morning.

The Indiana delegation is staying at a hotel near the Cleveland Airport. Many of the 57 were scheduled to do some sightseeing before tonight’s events get underway at Quicken Loans Arena in downtown Cleveland.

Holcomb is one of three candidates who are trying to replace Pence on the November ballot for governor.

Pence dropped out of his reelection race last week after Trump named him his running mate.

Holcomb, who once served as deputy chief of staff for former Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, has grown close to Pence over the years.

Earlier this year, Holcomb was Pence’s choice to become lieutenant governor when Sue Ellspermann stepped down.

On Tuesday night, Holcomb was the one selected to nominate Pence as the vice president at the RNC.

“I don’t think there could be a higher honor. He’s a special guy and a special friend. To be able to nominate a the next vice president of the United States of America was truly an opportunity of a life time and I’ll treasure it forever,” Holcomb said.

Holcomb said Indiana is ready to take the spotlight.

“If we can be a model, if we can be reference to this ticket, which we are, and to the American people, we’re up for that,” Holcomb said.

Others in the delegation include Portage, Indiana Mayor James Snyder.

Snyder said it’s going to be special tonight to see Pence give his acceptance speech.

He was there Tuesday night to see Pence and Trump receive the official nomination of the GOP.

“It was special for all of Indiana. All Hoosiers that were here today to have their governor nominated as vice president is a great day,” Snyder said. “Whether you like him or not, it’s a big deal to have our state showcased across the country on its bicentennial.”

Michael Puente is a WBEZ reporter covering Northwest Indiana. Follow him at @MikePuenteNews.