INDIANAPOLIS — State Senator Chris Garten (R-Charlestown) has announced his candidacy for President Pro Tempore of the Indiana State Senate.

He also plans to appoint Senator Eric Koch of Bedford as Majority Floor Leader.

“Hoosiers don’t send us to Indianapolis to play defense or maintain the status quo — they send us to deliver results,” Garten said in his announcement.

He added that his focus will be on a conservative, Indiana First agenda and protecting the GOP’s supermajority.

The seat opened after Rod Bray said he will not seek reelection to the post when lawmakers return in November. Bray has held the role since 2018 and will continue representing the Martinsville area through 2028.

His decision follows a failed redistricting effort in December, primary losses for several incumbents who voted against new congressional maps, and public comments from Gov. Mike Braun suggesting the caucus consider new leadership.

Garten said Koch was the clear choice for floor leader. “Eric is an elite strategist, an accomplished attorney, and a deeply respected leader with judgment beyond reproach,” he said.

Koch said the two share the same priorities. “We’ll listen to members, empower our team, and move a conservative agenda with purpose,” Koch said.

Both plan to meet with Republican caucus members in the coming weeks to discuss legislative priorities.

The President Pro Tempore sets the Senate’s legislative agenda, appoints committee chairs, and assigns all bills to committee each session.

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