Governor Says Change-Resistant Indiana Should Think Globally

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Resistance to change is often touted as a virtue in Indiana. But Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb says the state's prosperity relies on rethinking that approach.

Holcomb envisions a state that out-competes other larger commerce centers.

In recent months he has helped land new business, lured a direct flight route to Paris and strengthened the state's economic ties to Japan.

But the Rust Belt state faces many daunting challenges.

Experts say workers are inadequately trained for the jobs that currently exist and quality-of-life improvements are needed to help lure new industry.

But that kind of change often doesn't go over well. Indiana historian James Madison says people who buck the status quo are often "slapped back down."

Holcomb says "digging a moat around yourself" won't solve the state's problems.