Last night’s debate among the candidates for governor in Merrillville lasted an hour but I think I can sum it up quicker.

Call this a translation for those who lack the ability to spot political nuance.

Mitch Daniels:  “I’m doin’ stuff.  You don’t like some of it and I understand, but my heart is in the right place.  If you re-elect me, I will do more stuff and maybe sell it better.”

Jill Long Thompson:  “All the stuff he’s doing is misguided.  I’ll do different stuff.  I can’t tell you what it will be but I’m not him.  You’re not supposed to like him.”

Andy Horning:  “I’m not a politician.  Sure, I’ve run for mayor, governor, Congress, and now governor again, but if you have no prospect for winning, you’re not really a politician.  I am glib.”