INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana voters decided a crowded six-way Republican primary to replace term-limited GOP Gov. Eric Holcomb.
The field featured first-term U.S. Sen. Mike Braun, who had former president Donald Trump’s backing; former state Commerce Secretary Brad Chambers; Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch; former state economic official Eric Doden; former state Attorney General Curtis Hill and conservative activist Jamie Reitenour.
Braun led in the polls, then claimed the GOP nomination for governor early Tuesday evening.
He told his supporters in Indianapolis Tuesday night he intends to be the most entrepreneurial and most accessible governor Indiana has ever seen.
After what turned out to be the most competitive and expensive Republican gubernatorial primary in Indiana's history so far, there were signs Tuesday night the primary was already in the rear view mirror for Braun, who is focused on November.
"I've already had three folks who I ran against aggressively, call in, wish me well and want to get on board so we can beat the other side of the aisle when it comes to the election in November," Braun said.
In his acceptance speech to friends and supporters, Braun referenced the founding fathers several times, saying it was time for the individual states to get the country back on solid ground.
"Sooner or later, you got to make sure government gets back to the people at the levels where you're going to be accountable and you can get things done, and that's what I intend to do," Braun said.
The primary contest saw the six Republican candidates debating on national issues, like China and immigration. Braun called the primary feisty and competitive, saying it's time for Republicans to come together for the good of everyone.
Democratic nominee for governor Jennifer McCormick said the key to winning in November involves listening to Hoosiers about their concerns.
"We're going to get it done sticking true to issues Hoosiers are concerned about – that being restoring women's reproductive rights and freedoms, education, high-paying jobs and our environment – and those are the issues Hoosiers want to talk about," McCormick said.
McCormick acknowledged the fight in front of her. A heavily Republican-leaning state — Indiana hasn't elected a Democratic governor in more than 20 years.
For McCormick to change that, she knows it will take work.
"We're having town halls. We're inviting everyone and opening those tents and making sure that everyone feels welcome," McCormick said. "We are also using social media to make sure we're reaching a lot of people. So, you know, we know what we're up against. It's going to be a battle, but we're ready."
McCormick said she plans to talk to Hoosiers in all of the state's 92 counties.
Braun told supporters as senator, he visited each Indiana county at least once a year and plans to do so again.