For Immediate Release: February 7, 2026

Contact: Gage Hoekstra, Press Secretary, [email protected]

Statement from Chairwoman Keesling Announcing the Election of Nick McKinley to Indiana Senate District 17

La Fontaine, Ind. (February 7, 2026) – A caucus of Precinct Committeemen in Senate District 17 was called by State Chairwoman Lana Keesling to fill a vacancy for State Senate created by the resignation of Andy Zay, who Governor Mike Braun has appointed to Chair the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission. 

Senator-elect Nick McKinley of Grant County won the caucus on the first round of voting. McKinley will fulfill the remainder of the Senate District 17 term, which is up for reelection later this year.

Statement from Indiana GOP Chairwoman Lana Keesling:

"It is my honor to congratulate Nick McKinley, a man who is eager to defend and advance the principles and priorities our party and his district hold so dear, on his victory in the caucus to serve the Hoosiers of Senate District 17.

Following a senator who served his constituents with distinction for nearly a decade is no easy task, but I know that Nick has the courage and capacity needed to meet that challenge.

I am deeply heartened by the enthusiasm of Senator-elect McKinley's neighbors to see him represent them in the State Senate, and I look forward to working side by side to advance the cause of freedom and prosperity in Indiana."

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