Greg Ballard Will Seek Indiana Ballot Access for Lincoln Party
Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard is launching the Lincoln Party ahead of the November 3, 2026 election.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Political Parties
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Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard is forming the Lincoln Party to compete in the November 3, 2026 secretary of state election. The party aims to function as a ballot-access vehicle for candidates who prioritize principles over rigid policy positions.
Why it matters
The Lincoln Party seeks to challenge the traditional political binary by focusing on shared governance standards such as listening to constituents and protecting liberties. It offers an alternative for candidates who prioritize problem-solving and transparency over the defense of specific partisan agendas.
To achieve official party status under Indiana law, the party must secure at least 2% of the total vote in the secretary of state race. Earning 10% of the vote would trigger a requirement to hold primary elections and establish a formal organizational structure.
The players
Greg Ballard
He is the former mayor of Indianapolis and is currently running for secretary of state as an independent candidate.
Max Engling
He is a candidate appearing on the ballot for the 2026 Indiana secretary of state election.
Beau Bayh
He is a candidate for the office of secretary of state in the upcoming Indiana election.
Lauri Shillings
She is a candidate contesting the Indiana secretary of state race in 2026.
The details
Candidates affiliated with the Lincoln Party must commit to transparency and a pledge to avoid personal attacks during their campaigns. The party's platform is defined by a statement of principles, including honoring election results and supporting free enterprise, rather than a list of specific legislative policy goals.
Timeline
November 3, 2026: The secretary of state election will be held across Indiana.
Political Context
The effort to establish the Lincoln Party tests the limits of Indiana state ballot-access laws, which dictate the viability of third-party movements. Critics often argue that such high thresholds for party recognition serve to entrench the existing two-party system and limit electoral competition.
Voters will see a new political designation on their ballots, offering a different choice beyond the traditional party candidates. If the party succeeds, future elections in the state may include mandatory primary contests for the group, altering how voters select their representatives.
The takeaway
The Lincoln Party attempt highlights the difficulty of launching third-party movements within strict state-level regulatory environments. Supporters argue that prioritizing principles over policy could bridge partisan divides, while opponents emphasize the necessity of established party structures for governance.
Further reading
Learn more about the Political Parties landscape currently shifting in Indiana.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Indystar.
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