Vi Simpson (left) with John Gregg following a press conference announcing Simpson as the Democrat candidate's running mate. Gregg campaign

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - Democratic gubernatorial nominee John Gregg has officially announced state Senator Vi Simpson as his running mate. 

Gregg said he decided on Sen. Simpson (D-Ellettsville) as his lieutenant governor last week. He introduced Simpson Tuesday on the south steps of the Indiana Statehouse.

“We both know how to reach across the aisle. To reach out to Republicans and to Democrats and get things done. That is the Indiana way, not the Washington, D.C. way,” Simpson said in taking a shot at Republican gubernatorial opponent Mike Pence, a current U.S. Congressman.

The former House Speaker is a fairly conservative Democrat who is pro-life, while his running mate he admits is much more liberal.  

“Well, about everybody is more liberal than me. I needed a running mate who was qualified to serve,” Gregg said.

Simpson was asked if it will be her role to energize the Democratic party base. She said she hopes she can.

The Elletsville resident was first elected to the state Senate in 1984. She became the leader of the Senate Democrat Caucus in 2008.

Gregg and Simpson will campaign together Wednesday with stops in Terre Haute, Bloomington, New Albany, and Evansville.

Mike Pence announce his lieutenant governor choice, freshman State Rep. Sue Ellspermann, on Monday.

LINKS:

Gregg To Make Lt. Gov. Pick Tuesday

Pence Taps State Rep. Ellspermann As Lt. Gov.

Pence To Announce Running Mate Online

Gov. Candidate Gregg Unveils Tax Plan

Pence To Announce His Lt. Gov. Pick Soon

Gregg Wants To End Indiana's Gas Sales Tax

Pence Raises $1.8M, Gregg Gets $584K In 1Q