A Senator from Indiana, born on March 24, 1954, in Jasper, Indiana, has a strong educational background with a B.A. in economics from Wabash College and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School. Before entering the Senate, he served in the Indiana House of Representatives from 2014 to 2017. Elected to the United States Senate as a Republican in 2018, he served until January 3, 2025, when he was elected governor of Indiana, taking office on January 13, 2025.
In his legislative role, he has focused on issues related to government accountability, pension reform, and financial transparency. He sponsored significant legislation such as the Members of Congress Pension Opt Out Clarification Act (SB86), which aims to provide future Members of Congress the option to opt out of the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). This bill reflects a growing trend for employees seeking alternative retirement options and promotes a discussion on entitlement reform in federal programs.
Additionally, he introduced the End Pensions in Congress Act (SB87), which seeks to exclude future Members of Congress from FERS altogether and requires current Members enrolled in the Federal Employees Retirement System or Civil Service Retirement System to actively choose to continue their enrollment. This legislation responds to public concerns regarding the adequacy and fairness of congressional retirement benefits.
The Senator also supported the Banning Lobbying and Safeguarding Trust Act (SB88), aimed at imposing a lifetime ban on lobbying for former Members of Congress. This bill is part of ongoing efforts to enhance ethical standards in Congress and improve public trust.
In terms of political leanings, his proposed legislation indicates a conservative stance, particularly with regard to limiting government benefits and promoting fiscal responsibility. His position is reflective of broader Republican efforts to reform congressional operations and reduce public perception of governmental extravagance.
Throughout his career, he has emphasized accountability in government spending and transparency, illustrated by his sponsorship of bills such as the No Budget, No Pay Act (SB89), which would prohibit Congress Members from being paid until both chambers pass a budget resolution and all appropriations bills for that fiscal year. These initiatives showcase his commitment to ensuring that Congress operates efficiently and responsibly.
As a family man and a successful businessman, he merges personal experience with his political agenda, working to implement policies aimed at improving public service and fostering a more accountable government. Following his tenure in the Senate, he will continue to serve Indiana as its governor, where he will likely influence state-level policies and initiatives in line with his previous legislative efforts.
Through his actions and proposed legislation, he has demonstrated an alignment with traditional conservative values while aiming to reform practices perceived as detrimental to public trust in government.