A Light in the Darkness: Hamilton County Democrats Celebrate First-Ever Torchbearer Gala

Libby Hogan
6 hours ago
3 min read

An inspiring evening honoring future leaders, energized volunteers, and the candidates carrying the torch into 2026.

November 20, 2025

Fishers, IN – The Hamilton County Democratic Party proudly hosted its inaugural Torchbearer Gala on Friday, November 14 at The Hawthorns Golf and Country Club in Fishers. Designed around the theme “A Light in the Darkness,” the event brought together elected officials, candidates, party leaders, and community members for an evening of connection, inspiration, and commitment to the path ahead.

County Party Chair Josh Lowry opened the program by emphasizing the purpose of the celebration: focusing on momentum and investing in the next generation of leadership. “We didn’t choose our speakers by chance,” Lowry said. “We chose the future of the Democratic Party, because everything we’re building is aimed at supporting and investing in our 2026 candidates and beyond.”

"...Everything we’re building is aimed at supporting and investing in our 2026 candidates and beyond.”

A Program Filled With Rising Leaders

The gala featured keynote remarks from Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun and State Senator Andrea Hunley, both representing a rising wave of Democratic leadership in Indiana. Attendees also heard video messages from Congressman Ro Khanna and newly sworn-in U.S. Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva, who offered encouragement and praise for the growing momentum in Hamilton County.

The room was filled with distinguished guests including:

State Senator JD Ford
State Representative Dr. Victoria Garcia Wilburn
Fishers City Councilman Bill Stuart
Carmel City Council Member Dr. Anita Joshi
State Representative Carey Hamilton (Indianapolis)

Spotlight on 2026 Candidates

The heart of the evening belonged to the 2026 Indiana state legislative candidates, recognized as the future torchbearers of Democratic progress in Hamilton County:

Racheal Bleicher – House District 24
Joel Levi – House District 37
Lasima Packett – Senate District 31
Stephanie Jo Yocum – House District 88
Tiffany Stoner – House District 25

Each candidate is poised to play a critical role in the effort to break the long-standing Republican supermajority and bring balance and accountability back to the Statehouse.

Honoring the Community That Makes the Work Possible

HamCo Dems Events Chair Nocona Canady-Flatt closed the ceremony with heartfelt gratitude for the supporters and volunteers who brought the event to life.“Thank you to every single person who bought tickets, donated a Young Dems ticket, contributed, or volunteered in any way,” she said. “You continue to fight through the fatigue of the endless news cycle to show that hope is possible, change is necessary, accountability is worth fighting for, and that light always defeats darkness. You matter and the future world we work for thanks you, as do I. May we all continue to hold the torch to light our path through the dark.”

"You matter and the future world we work for thanks you, as do I. May we all continue to hold the torch to light our path through the dark.”

A Night of Momentum—and a Vision for the Future

The Torchbearer Gala marked a turning point for Hamilton County Democrats: a bold affirmation that the party is growing, organizing, and preparing to meet the moment in 2026 and beyond. With invigorated candidates, engaged community members, and renewed purpose, the light carried forward from this event will fuel the work ahead.

Check out photos from the evening here.

Libby Hogan has been a HamCo Dems volunteer writer since 2021, playing an intricate role in the brand launch at the time. As a Public Relations professional, Libby brings years of experience and press management to your party. She contributes weekly as our Press Release and Blogger, and has worked on individual campaigns around the county. You can learn more about volunteering at hamcodemsin.org/action.