Here’s some reaction to Governor Mike Braun’s State of the State address…

Senate President Pro Tem Rod Bray

  • I am extremely pleased to see Gov. Braun focusing his speech – and his administration – on issues that matter most to Hoosiers. Property tax reform, fiscal integrity, lowering health care costs and improving government accountability are all issues that are very important to me and my caucus, which is why those issues are addressed in our 2025 caucus agenda bills. We look forward to a collaborative and productive session with the governor and our colleagues in the House as we work toward innovative solutions that improve our state for all Hoosiers.

House Speaker Todd Huston

  • “Gov. Braun is showing right out of the gate that he is going to lead with action. Our caucus is working closely with the governor and his team on several shared priorities to reduce health care costs, streamline government, improve public safety, empower parents and strengthen our schools. We’ll continue to advance the bold, conservative leadership that’s resulted in low taxes, a growing economy and increased opportunity for Hoosiers.”

House Democratic Leader Phil Gia Quinta

  • I found several points of agreement with Gov. Braun tonight. He’s right that Hoosiers are barely keeping their heads above water due to the rising cost of living. And we agree that Hoosiers are paying too much for healthcare and we need to address each of aspect of the health care industry individually to bring down costs.    However, Gov. Braun says local government can do more with less. But when you’re having a heart attack and call 911, do you want the people coming to help you to be doing more with less? Do you want them underfunded? I think no.  Finally, the Republican property tax plan is a farce. The proposals we’ve seen so far shift more of the burden of funding our schools, police and first responders to local government. That means Hoosiers will continue to pay more in taxes, just to a different entity. It’s a bait and switch attempt for Republicans to blame cities and counties for rising costs and run for reelection on cutting taxes.”

 Indiana Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Vanessa Green Sinders 

  • “It’s so advantageous for Indiana to have a successful business leader as the state’s chief executive, looking for efficiencies, being bold and seizing opportunities. That mindset by Gov. Braun and his administration will better position the state to be more competitive and for businesses and Hoosiers to prosper.  We agree with the Governor that big ideas and collaboration are needed. Two of his agenda items are prime examples of both. The Hoosier Workforce Investment Tax Credit would serve as a big catalyst for businesses to invest in the development of their workers and for those individuals to earn higher wages then. Establishing the Office of Entrepreneurship would allow the state to facilitate much more entrepreneurial activity and emphasize its commitment to small businesses.  Governor Braun is right to recognize that rising property taxes are placing a burden on homeowners and businesses alike. As action is being considered, the Indiana Chamber encourages the administration and Legislature to prioritize equitable, transparent reforms that balance relief for all taxpayers with the need for strong, sustainable communities.  We look forward to working with the Governor and lawmakers on these issues and a variety of policies to make the state a place where even more people want to live and work.”

Rick Snyder, Indy FOP President

  • “Tonight, Governor Mike Braun provided a pragmatic, common sense vision for our State and the challenges we face.  We applaud his public recognition of SB324 authored by Senator Aaron Freeman which enhances penalties for Fentanyl dealers, strengthens the consequences for those who target law enforcement officers, and adds mandatory minimum bail for repeat violent offenders. This is a cornerstone of Governor Braun’s Freedom and Opportunity — Public Safety Agenda. We thank him for his commitment to Closing the Revolving Door of Criminal Justice and look forward to seeing him sign it into law. With Governor Braun’s leadership and his administration’s partnership with the Legislature, they can turn Indiana’s challenges into opportunities for all Hoosiers.”