While the election for Indiana governor is still almost two years away, Republican candidate Eric Miller is working at the grassroots level now to win it.

Tuesday, he and his election campaign chairman Otis R. Bowen were the honorary guests at a reception and fund-raiser for his campaign at Cox Studios, Warsaw.

"This election is about each of us and restoring the great state of Indiana," said John Elliott in his introductory comments before a crowd of approximately 100.

Bowen, in introducing Miller, said it wasn't too early for Miller to begin his campaign. He said he wants to see Indiana in good health for his children and grandchildren. The state is struggling financially and "we need new leadership." Eric Miller, he said, is that kind of leadership.

Miller is the executive director of Advance America, a conservative pro-family, pro-business and pro-tax reform organization.

A governor, Bowen said, cannot lead by trying to please everyone, straddling the fence or coming down on both sides. A governor must be a strong leader and Miller is that, he said.

After being introduced and thanking everyone for attending, Miller said he has found that all across Indiana, people realize something has gone wrong in Indiana but don't know what to do about it. Hoosiers are worried about the "brain drain" and job loss in Indiana.

He also said Indiana government is spending too many tax dollars. Taxes are up and the Indiana deficit may reach $1 billion because of too much spending. People are asking what they can do about it.

"They're looking for hope," he said.

With their campaign theme of "It's All About You," Miller said they will have the largest grassroots network Indiana has ever seen to give Indiana just that - hope. To run for governor, he said it may cost $18 million to $20 million, but "we're the campaign that can turn Indiana around."

Also speaking in high regards of Miller was State Rep. Dave Wolkins and State Sen. Kent Adams.

Wolkins said he has worked with Miller in Indianapolis for the last 14 years but, unfortunately, Miller's work has been playing defense, not offense.

"It would be really nice to have Eric Miller leading the parade ... ," said Wolkins.

Of Miller's campaign, Adams said, "He will get there. He will get there, believe me. The network is there."

No other candidate in Indiana is doing what Miller is doing, said Adams. He's going out and meeting the people.

He said, "You're going to see a campaign in the next 1-1/2 years you haven't seen in a long time."

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