Eric Holcomb Is Indiana's New Lieutenant Governor

INDIANAPOLIS -- Eric Holcomb officially became Indiana’s 51st lieutenant governor on Thursday, replacing Sue Ellspermann, who left to pursue a job at Ivy Tech.

A veritable who’s who of Indiana government gathered at the Statehouse to watch Supreme Court Justice Mark Massa swear in Eric Holcomb.  The balconies ringing the atrium were crowded with lobbyists, lawmakers and politicos, all to see a ceremony that’s taken place in the middle of a term only twice in the last century. 

When introducing Holcomb, Gov. Mike Pence noted the many hats he’s worn: Navy veteran, congressional staffer, Deputy Chief of Staff to Gov. Mitch Daniels, Indiana Republican Party Chair, and Chief of Staff to U.S. Sen. Dan Coats.

“I believe Eric Holcomb may be the best-prepared person to ever assume the duties of lieutenant governor of the state of Indiana,” Pence said.

Holcomb says all those roles have taken him around the world, but that he’s always been drawn home to Indiana.

“From our urban to rural settings, Indiana has it all," Holcomb said. "And I’m eager to spread the good word, far and wide.”

Holcomb’s ascension comes just eight months before his name will appear on the ballot with Pence in the General Election.

Earlier Post

The House and Senate Thursday confirmed Eric Holcomb to become Indiana’s new lieutenant governor with little fanfare.  

The former chairman of the Indiana Republican Party becomes the state’s second-in-command after former Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann stepped down Wednesday.

Minority Leader Tim Lanane, speaking on the Senate floor, says the legislature is in uncharted waters confirming a new lieutenant governor after one resigned so close to an election.

“I personally think this whole matter could have been avoided but it’s here. The governor has made his recommendation. I’m going to go ahead and accept that recommendation," Lanane said. "As you can tell, I have perhaps some reservations as to exactly why we are here and what we’re doing at this stage.”

The Senate unanimously confirmed the nomination.  The House approved Holcomb 91-3, though there was little discussion on the floor beyond Speaker Brian Bosma’s brief introduction.

“I’m confident that the Governor’s nominee will capably fill the role and add to the fabric of a great state that we have created together,” he said.

Upon being officially sworn in, Holcomb becomes Indiana’s 51st lieutenant governor.