4 Candidates Qualify for Republican Caucus to Fill Indiana Senate Seat

Who's Running to Replace Senator Mark Messmer?

Four candidates have qualified for the upcoming Republican caucus to fill the Indiana Senate seat vacated by Mark Messmer.

The candidates are:

• Julie Patterson, a former state representative and current member of the Hamilton County Council
• Jennifer Meltzer, a former state representative and current member of the Carmel City Council
• Kyle Walker, a former member of the Indiana House of Representatives
• Ronald Drake, a former member of the Indiana Senate and former mayor of Carmel

The caucus will be held on February 28, 2023, at the Hamilton County Republican Party headquarters in Noblesville.

The winner of the caucus will face Democrat Melina Kennedy in the special election on May 5, 2023.

What are the Key Issues in the Race?

The candidates are likely to focus on the following issues in the race:

• The economy
• Education
• Healthcare
• Public safety
• Taxes

Who is the Favorite to Win the Race?

It is too early to say who is the favorite to win the race. However, Julie Patterson and Jennifer Meltzer are considered to be the frontrunners.

Patterson has the advantage of being the only candidate who has held elected office at the state level. She also has the support of the Hamilton County Republican Party.

Meltzer is a well-known figure in Carmel and has a strong base of support in the city. She is also a strong fundraiser.

Walker and Drake are considered to be long shots in the race. However, they could both surprise if they can generate momentum in the final weeks of the campaign.

The race is expected to be close and competitive. The winner of the caucus will be the Republican nominee for the special election on May 5, 2023.