It’s the end of a historic era for Indiana as Connie Lawson announced this week she is retiring as Secretary of State. Few public servants in our state’s history have served with such distinction as Connie Lawson. Throughout her time in public life, Connie has been one of the most dedicated and effective office holders in Indiana history. For nearly a decade, Hoosiers have trusted her leadership and during her term, Indiana has become a national role model in running safe and secure elections. Faced with unprecedented election obstacles in 2020, Secretary Lawson successfully navigated the challenges of the pandemic to ensure Hoosiers could safely exercise their right to vote and be confident in the outcomes. Connie Lawson will be missed in the Statehouse, but I know her contributions to our state will not end with her upcoming retirement.

Connie leaves big shoes to fill and I look forward to working with Governor Holcomb as he considers candidates for this important appointment.

Building One Indiana for All

This week, Governor Holcomb signed Senate Enrolled Act 1, which provides businesses and schools with COVID liability protections. 

 “The pandemic has affected Hoosier businesses, schools and others in ways no one could have foreseen just one year ago. To aid in the state’s recovery, I made providing assurances that they will not have to live and work in fear of frivolous lawsuits a part of my Next Level Agenda. Most Hoosier businesses and other organizations are making good faith attempts to protect their customers and employees, because it is the right thing to do and it makes for better business in the long run. I want to thank lawmakers for rapidly passing this key piece of legislation and sending it to my desk for signature.” -Governor Holcomb

--> Click here to learn more about COVID liability protections <--
 

Governor Holcomb also provided a statement on Secretary of State Connie Lawson's retirement.

"Indiana’s own Iron Lady, Secretary of State Connie Lawson, has long defined what true public service and leadership is and ought to be all about. Throughout her time in county, legislative and statewide office, she set the standard for commitment, composure, class and credibility.  No matter the year or issues of the day, citizens could bank on Connie Lawson leading the way and inspiring others to follow." -Governor Holcomb

--> Click here for Governor Holcomb's full statement <--

To stay up to date on the latest developments, make sure you're following Governor Holcomb on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! 

Happy Birthday First Lady

This week First Lady Janet Holcomb celebrated her birthday! Please join us in wishing our First Lady a happy birthday.

Secretary Lawson: What They're Saying

Below are statements from some Hoosier elected officials on the retirement of Secretary of State Connie Lawson:

"Connie made it a goal to leave Indiana in a better place and during her entire public and private life, she has done exactly that. Congratulations to you and your family family upon your retirement." -Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch

"There aren't many public servants as effective and devoted to their work as Connie Lawson. From her barrier-breaking leadership in the General Assembly to her integrity and professionalism as Indiana's longest-serving Secretary of State, Hoosiers are fortunate to have benefited from her years of tireless, distinguished, and selfless service." -Sen. Todd Young

"Secretary Lawson has had a remarkable tenure as a public servant, and she is someone all public servants, myself included, can learn from. Over the years she has conducted herself with integrity, strength and determination – never backing down from a challenge or a call to serve – and Indiana should be proud to have had this woman in leadership in our state for so long." -Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray

"Secretary Lawson played an instrumental role in securing and reforming our elections system, and streamlining government services for Hoosier businesses. We are especially thankful for her tireless efforts throughout the pandemic to ensure the integrity of our democracy and voters' access to the polls. -Speaker of the House Todd Huston

 "Secretary Lawson has served with distinction as Secretary of State, and I am privileged to have served alongside her. She has been more than a leader- she has been a mentor, role model, and friend. My best wishes go with her and Jack as they enter the next chapter of their lives." - Treasurer of State Kelly Mitchell  
 

COVID-19 Vaccine Update

Thanks to Governor Holcomb's leadership, Indiana continues to lead the Midwest in percentage of citizens who have been fully vaccinated. If you’re 65 or over, you’re eligible to receive the vaccine! Learn more at ourshot.in.gov.

--> Click here for information on the COVID-19 vaccine in Indiana <--

Chairman Hupfer on the Passing of Rush Limbaugh

"Few, if any, have done more to spread the conservative message and attract more people to our conservative movement than Rush Limbaugh. He was a trailblazer and an icon who will be missed. My prayers go to his family, friends, and millions of listeners." -Chairman Kyle Hupfer