For The People in District 49

Both candidates in the House District 49 race have used the phrase “for the People.” The Republican incumbent, Joanna King, uses the phrase in her committee name “Joanna King for the People”. The Democratic challenger, Michelle Milne, has used the phrase in events. But a week before Election Day, the events both candidates are hosting make clear who they believe “the People” are.

The People Who Can Pay

On Monday, October 26th, King is holding a reception at the “8,400 sq ft estate on 5.8 acres” in Middlebury that is also listed on Airbnb for $2,220 with a two night minimum. Across the street is one of the Airbnbs where King is listed as the host. The event is hosted by a sitting congressman, the Indiana Attorney General, and a former State Senator. Tickets start at $75, couples pay $100, and sponsorship levels run from $1,000 to $5,000.

The People Who Give Back 

On Tuesday, October 27th, Milne is hosting “Give Back & Dance Party for the People” at a newly renovated event space in downtown Goshen. There is no cost of entry. Attendees are encouraged to bring canned goods and hygiene products, which go directly to The Window, a local nonprofit. Milne’s campaign is paying for the event, which includes a local food truck and several local DJs. (Note: The Window is not a sponsor or partner in the event, nor does it endorse any candidates.)

The People Behind the Money

Milne raised nearly twice what King did between January 1st and October 9th, 2026: $53,968.95 to King’s $29,758.36. Nearly all of Milne’s money came from individuals. Of her 200 contributions, 199 came from individuals, representing at least 143 donors, including at least 72 donors who each gave less than $100. However, King began the year with a $47,709.62 balance, and isn’t short of money or resources. According to state filings, 94% of her donations came from PACs and organizations this year between January 1st and October 9th (https://campaignfinance.in.gov/).

King’s filings also list zero unitemized donations for that period. Unitemized donations are the small contributions that normally add up to a campaign’s grassroots support, the category a $75 or single $100 ticket would fall into. With a campaign funded almost entirely by PACs and organizations, this reception, with sponsorships up to $5,000, looks like an effort to add more donors who can afford to give big. 

The People at the Door 

Anyone can put “for the People” on a campaign. The test is who can walk through the door. King’s campaign has set her price at $75, with the best seats reserved for those who can give $1,000 to $5,000. Milne has an open door for anyone, encouraging them to bring a can of food or a bottle of shampoo. Voters can decide for themselves whom each candidate expects to hear from and answer to.

By Dan Barwick, Goshen Dems Volunteer