Indiana Governor Mike Braun told listeners on Fort Wayne’s Morning News that the GOP must treat the 2026 election results as a wake‑up call and double down on policies that ease the cost of living for Indiana families. Braun said voters have been voicing concerns about rising gas, utility, housing and property‑tax bills for more than a year, and that Republicans cannot afford to be tone‑deaf.
Targeted initiatives to lower costs
Braun highlighted several state‑backed programs aimed at putting money back into Hoosier households. He pointed to a $200 million investment from state reserves into childcare vouchers, which he said has already cut the waiting list by 78 percent. Expanding early‑childhood learning, including broader access to pre‑K and childcare, will remain a top priority.
In the utility sector, Braun noted agreements with Indiana utility companies such as AEP that are expected to reduce utility rates by 5 percent and freeze them for three years. While the price‑relief measures will not take effect for a few months, the governor emphasized that they demonstrate a proactive approach to keeping energy costs affordable.
On property taxes, Braun said the state is working to broaden exemptions for homeowners over the next four years, a move designed to lessen the tax burden on families who own their homes. He also reminded listeners that Indiana’s gas tax suspension will continue through early December, providing short‑term relief at the pump.
Infrastructure and fiscal responsibility
Looking ahead to the next legislative session, Braun warned that rising construction material costs—particularly steel and concrete—have made road funding more challenging since the last major discussion in 2017. He also cited improved vehicle fuel efficiency, which reduces gasoline tax revenue, and suggested lawmakers consider a more permanent solution for road financing.
Despite these challenges, Braun argued that Indiana’s healthy state reserves and disciplined spending have allowed the administration to pursue these affordability measures without jeopardizing the state’s fiscal health.
Healthcare affordability
Healthcare costs, Braun said, remain a major concern for families and can push households into bankruptcy. He pledged to continue pushing for reforms that challenge insurance companies and hospitals on pricing, and expressed willingness to work with Democrats on practical solutions.
Looking to 2028
When asked what Republicans must achieve over the next two years to win back voter confidence, Braun stressed the need for efficient government and continued focus on the cost pressures facing Hoosier families. He cited the public‑university tuition freeze, childcare investments, utility relief and property‑tax reforms as concrete examples of work already underway.
“A lot has been done. We just need to keep on course,” Braun concluded, urging the party to stay the course on affordability as the 2028 election approaches.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
