INDIANAPOLIS -- Democrat John Gregg and Republican Eric Holcomb met for the first time on the campaign trail this week as they both vie to be Indiana's next governor.
Both addressed a summit on farm policy just one day after the Indiana Republican Party nominated Holcomb to replace Gov. Mike Pence on the ballot in November.
Holcomb, who is getting a late start on his run, says he's prepared for a "100-day sprint." But his enthusiasm comes as questions are raised about whether he can receive help in the way of significant campaign cash from Pence.
An article by Politico reporter Kevin Robillard pointed out on Tuesday that, now that Pence is a vice presidential nominee, campaign finance laws will limit the amount he can move to Holcomb's campaign.
Pence joined Donald Trump's ticket with more than $7 million in his "Mike Pence for Indiana" campaign fund. He endorsed Holcomb to replace him on the ballot.
Holcomb says he's concerned, but confident that he can raise the millions needed to execute his campaign plan.
Gregg says he's unconcerned about who his candidate is in November.
"I'm the only candidate that has been running for governor all along," Gregg said. "I declared for governor, and I've stayed running for that position. It's because I want to serve as governor rather than be governor. I don't listen to polls and name ID, but I do listen to Hoosiers."
Holcomb said he's been traveling the state for more than a decade working for former Gov. Mitch Daniels and then Pence.
"I've been to all counties more than three times, had relationships in different capacities, whether for Mitch Daniels or Dan Coats and as chairman [of the Indiana Republican Party] for eight years," Holcomb said.
Friday is the deadline to file paperwork to run for lieutenant governor. The Republican State Central Committee will formally nominate its pick on Monday.
