Republican Party officials in Shelby and Bartholomew Counties elected Messer to fill the remainder of Rep. Roland Stine's term. Stine was killed in an auto accident last month involving a suspected drunk driver.
"It is with a heavy heart that I enter the General Assembly," said Representative-elect Messer. "Roland was a tremendous leader in our community, and I plan to work tirelessly to continue Roland's legacy of outstanding service."
Messer is a 1991 graduate of Wabash, earned his law degree from Vanderbilt, and is an attorney with the Indianapolis-based law firm of Barnes and Thornburg.
Messer plans to focus his work in the General Assembly on creating good-paying jobs in Indiana and ensuring that every Hoosier child receives a quality education.
"Roland dedicated his life to teaching Hoosier children," said Messer. "I think I owe it to his memory and the future of our state to make sure Indiana has a first-rate public school system."
Indiana Republican Party Chairman Jim Kittle, Jr. calls Messer's victory a win for Hoosier values. "Luke is a good friend and a trusted advisor. He shares a commitment to hard work, faith, and family with the people of Shelby and Bartholomew Counties and I am confident he will represent them well in the General Assembly."
Representative-elect Messer will continue to serve as Executive Director of the Indiana Republican Party.
Information about Messer's swearing-in ceremony will be released at a later date.
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