A Republican won the open seat in Indiana House District 13. The district includes all or parts of eight counties: Benton, Fountain, Jasper, Montgomery, Newton, Tippecanoe, Warren and White.
Sharon Negele claimed roughly 59% of the vote over Democrat Mark Straw. She says she’s excited, humbled and proud to represent the district.
"I thought it was a very civil race. I really enjoyed getting to know a lot of people in the area, which I never ventured to before, because it's a brand new district. Overall, it was a clean, comfortable race."
Negele and other Republicans are scheduled to take care of some business Wednesday afternoon. They will be choosing the House Republican leadership.
She says she’s ready to serve with her new colleagues, Governor-elect Mike Pence and Democrat Glenda Ritz, the new state Superintendent of Public Instruction.
"I knew that (race) was a potential upset. I look forward to getting to know Glenda and trying to come up with a strategy that works and do what's best for our kids."
Besides education issues, Negele says the biggest job facing the General Assembly is crafting a balanced budget. Lawmakers will craft a new two year budget next session.
"It will be critical to come up with a plan for spending the dollars most wisely, in an economical way, that fosters growth in our education system and growth in jobs."
Negele says she will end her job as Attica clerk-treasurer when she’s officially sworn into office as state representative. The Fountain County Republican Party will hold a caucus to name a replacement.
