FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bradley Kelley, Press Secretary
Bradley.Kelley@iga.in.gov
317-234-3560
Sen. Kyle Walker Announces He Will Not Seek Reelection, Will Serve Remainder of Term:
STATEHOUSE (Dec 3, 2025) — State Senator Kyle Walker (R-Lawrence) today released the following statement on his decision to not seek reelection in 2026.
“Over the past six years, I have championed several pieces of legislation to support my constituents and all Hoosiers, bolster the communities in my district, and strengthen the state in a variety of ways.
“Perhaps one of the most meaningful measures that will benefit the residents of Fishers, I led the charge to change the state’s local income tax distribution formula to ensure the city of Fishers receives a more equitable share of local income tax revenue. To support Fishers’ innovative and growing economy, I helped secure funding for the Internet of Things (IoT) lab and supported the creation of a professional sports development area for Fishers to spur private investment and attract new entertainment amenities.
“For a statewide impact, I also authored the Sports and Tourism Bid Fund to help communities across Indiana access resources to host major events to stimulate local economic growth.
“In an effort to crack down on gun violence and make Hoosier communities safer, I led efforts to create the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force to trace and share information on firearms used in violent crime and bring violent criminals to justice quicker. I also spearheaded multiple laws to increase law enforcement agency communication, improve dispatch systems and public safety response times to save Hoosiers’ lives, as well as enhance penalties for swatting.
“Over several years, to support Indiana’s foster youth, I authored bills to provide tax credits to support foster care organizations, to help foster youth open bank accounts and get access to car insurance. In 2026, I’m working on a foster youth bill of rights to ensure young Hoosiers in foster care understand their rights and protections and have a voice in decisions affecting their lives.
“Because our veterans groups and fraternal organizations needed ways to raise funds to support their critical missions, I authored a modernized charitable gaming bill. And, on a lighter note, to support the state’s tourism and restaurant industries — and for Hoosiers so inclined — I helped make “happy hour specials” legal again.
“In addition to those efforts, I have worked with my colleagues on various efforts to pass responsible tax relief for families and small businesses, increase funding for education, strengthen public safety, and advance policies that support job creation and economic growth. I am proud of the work we’ve done to improve Indiana’s business climate while also protecting taxpayers and preserving the values that make our state strong.
“Serving the people of Senate District 31 has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and I will continue to represent my constituents until my term ends next November. But I will not seek re-election in 2026.
“As some of my colleagues, friends and family know, this is a decision I’ve wrestled with for several months. I am forever grateful for having the opportunity to represent the people of our district. This, however, is a season of change for me. Looking forward, I have also decided to start a new chapter in my professional career.
“Stepping away from this role, no doubt, what I will miss most are the people. From community meetings and school visits to conversations with small-business owners, teachers, first responders, and families across the district, this role has offered daily reminders of why public service matters. Hoosiers are thoughtful, engaged, and deeply committed to their communities, and representing them has been both humbling and inspiring.
“I remain fully committed to serving with the same focus and energy for the remainder of my term, and to ensuring a smooth transition for the district’s future leadership. But I also want to make this announcement now, in advance of the February filing deadline, so that potential candidates have some time to consider their interest and ability to serve this district.
“My commitment to my constituents remains steadfast and I want to sincerely thank the voters of District 31 for their trust and support. I am also grateful beyond words to my wife and family for their unwavering support, patience, and encouragement throughout this journey.
“In honor of those I serve, and for all the right reasons, we will run through the tape.”
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State Sen. Kyle Walker (R-Lawrence) represents Senate District 31,
which includes portions of Hamilton and Marion counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
