Incumbent Joe Hogsett (D) defeated challenger Jefferson Shreve (R) and was elected to a third term as Indianapolis’ mayor. In Indianapolis, there are no term limits, and candidates can be re-elected for multiple terms. Indy’s longest-serving mayor was Bill Hudnut (R), who served four terms from 1976 to1991.

This mayoral race was the most expensive in Indianapolis’ history.

Hogsett and Shreve participated in several debates, allowing voters to understand their views. Chalkbeat Indiana shared a guide outlining their education views.

When asked if they believed there should be a moratorium on opening new charter schools in Indianapolis, neither candidate stated there should be limitations and instead pointed to evaluating each charter school by the systems already in place.

A point of contention during the mayoral race was the safety of Indianapolis residents. As reported by WTHR News 13 Sherve said violence is “like part of the backdrop of Indianapolis, and it shouldn’t be that way.”

Over the last few weeks several young people have died from violence including a KIPP High School student. This student was shot in the parking lot of the Edna Martin Christian Center which is next door to the high school.

During his campaign, Hogsett touted programs such as “Summer in the City” as one way the city is combatting violence especially among the youth.

Hogsett addressed voters at Kountry Kitchen Soul Food Place last night after being declared the projected winner. From the crowd, people chanted, “four more years.”

In his victory speech Hogsett had a call to action for Indianapolis residents.

“Lastly, I want to thank the residents of the city of Indianapolis. Over the past eight years, we have rejoiced together and we have stood in solace together. In good times and in tough times, it has been the residents of our beautiful city who have kept us focused and energized and that does not stop today. We will need you over the next four years because change can’t come for the mayor’s office alone.”