BLOOMINGTON — The Monroe County Democratic Party will convene a vacancy caucus this Saturday, Jan. 31, to select a new Perry Township Trustee following the passing of Dan “Carp” Combs earlier this month.
Combs, a beloved community figure who served as trustee for nearly 40 years, died on January 6 at the age of 73. His tenure was marked by a fierce advocacy for low-income residents and the expansion of township assistance programs. The winner of Saturday’s caucus will serve the remainder of Combs’ term through the end of 2026.
The Candidates
Three candidates have officially filed to fill the vacancy:
- Leon Gordon: A local advocate and community leader.
- Eric Petry: A Bloomington resident who had previously announced his intention to run for the seat in the 2026 primary.
- Levi Combs: The son of the late Dan Combs, seeking to continue his father’s long-standing legacy in the office.
The caucus is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. at the Bloomington City Council Chambers at 401 North Morton Street.
Under Indiana Democratic Party rules, the voting body is strictly limited to elected and appointed Precinct Committee Persons (PCPs) within Perry Township who were certified as of January 2025.
Only elected Precinct Chairs may send their Vice Precinct Chair as a proxy. The Central Committee is currently “locked,” meaning no new appointments can be made specifically to vote in this caucus.
The Perry Township Trustee’s office is responsible for critical “safety net” services for the southern half of Bloomington, including emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, food, and burial expenses.
While the caucus winner will take office immediately, they—along with any other challengers—must still file and run in the May primary and November general election to secure a full four-year term beginning in 2027.
