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Rep. Ed Clere Leaves Indiana Assembly Amid GOP Rift

2/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rep. Ed Clere (R-Ind.) will leave the Indiana General Assembly after 18 years, citing political changes under U.S. President Donald Trump.
He criticizes divisive politics and the redistricting push he opposed.
Clere plans to run as an independent for New Albany mayor in 2027.
U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Bluffton City Councilman Blake Fiechter to challenge Republican Sen. Travis Holdman.
Clere's departure signals a rift within the Indiana GOP.

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Story summary

Rep. Ed Clere (R-Ind.) will leave the Indiana General Assembly after 18 years, citing political changes under U.S. President Donald Trump.
He criticizes divisive politics and the redistricting push he opposed.
Clere plans to run as an independent for New Albany mayor in 2027.
U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Bluffton City Councilman Blake Fiechter to challenge Republican Sen. Travis Holdman.
Clere's departure signals a rift within the Indiana GOP.