Long-time State Senator Travis Holdman lost to Trump-backed Blake Fiechter in the Republican primary for the 19th District.
A Bluffton city councilman, Fiechter suspended his campaign earlier this year but came back after an endorsement from President Donald Trump.
“I, and hopefully a lot of others are going to come into this and have fresh ideas, fresh perspectives, and not only that, but not a reason to say, why can't we do this? Or just because we've always done this doesn't mean we can't try it a different way,” Fiechter said.
"I'm humbled by the support to to have the votes to to beat a 18 year incumbent, and also thankful for Travis for his years of service, and, you know, the sacrifice that I know his family made throughout this career of his so for that," he said. "I'm just excited to bring a hopefully fresh perspective to the Senate, try to bring some new ideas and some fresh energy, and ultimately get some some relief from a lot of our rising expenses, hopefully back in the pockets of the Hoosiers."
Holdman, of Markle, has served in the Indiana Senate since 2008, and served as the senate majority caucus chair.
But Holdman drew the ire of President Trump after he spoke out against redistricting efforts late last year.
According to unofficial results, Fiechter won over 60 percent of the vote. The district encompasses Adams, Wells and Blackford counties, as well as a small chunk of southwestern Allen County.
Fiechter will face Democrat Tim Murphy in November.
