Indiana’s Female Lieutenant Governors: A Strong Streak Continues

As Indiana gears up for the fall elections, the state’s streak of female lieutenant governors continues, despite never having a woman hold the top office. U.S. Sen. Mike Braun’s recent victory in the GOP primary has solidified this trend, as he announced state Rep. Julie McGuire as his pick for lieutenant governor.

With four of the past five lieutenant governors in Indiana being women, the selection of McGuire by Braun continues this legacy. However, Indiana has never elected a female governor, making this trend of female second-in-commands all the more notable.

McGuire, a conservative legislator with a focus on education, brings recent legislative experience and connections to Braun’s ticket. While running with a woman on his ticket may give Braun a sense of diversity and credibility against attacks from his Democratic opponent, Jennifer McCormick, it may not necessarily gain him votes in the November election.

The role of lieutenant governor in Indiana holds little constitutional power but is first in line of succession if the governor is unable to perform their duties. McGuire’s selection by Braun has garnered support from influential Republicans, despite facing competition from a conservative pastor in the upcoming GOP convention.

As Indiana continues to see women in prominent political roles, the question remains whether the state will eventually elect a female governor. With the upcoming fall elections, the spotlight remains on the historic streak of female lieutenant governors in the state.