From The Herald-Times (Bloomington):
Q: A caucus of Democrat precinct committeemen has been called to name a replacement for Sen. Vi Simpson, who is running as lieutenant governor under gubernatorial candidate John Gregg.
We’re getting indications that the caucus will be closed to the media. Can they do this?
A: The first public access counselor, Anne Mullin O’Connor, issued an opinion that when a caucus is called to fill a vacated elected official’s seat, the meeting should be open for the public to observe and record pursuant to the Open Door Law.
The reason being that the political gathering has been delegated under state law with the authority to replace a duly elected official and the public has the right to observe the debate and vote.
Contact Steve Key, HSPA executive director and general counsel, with media law questions at skey@hspa.com or (317) 624-4427.
