House Dems Elect Rep. Terry Goodin New Leader

After the vote, Goodin revealed no details about his political strategy for the 2018 legislative session. But he did indicate a desire to fight gerrymandering. (Photo by Drew Daudelin)

About one week after Minority Leader Scott Pelath announced he would step down, House Democrats have a new leader – Rep. Terry Goodin.

After the caucus elected him, Goodin revealed no details about his political strategy for the 2018 legislative session.

But he did indicate a desire to fight gerrymandering, and the need for Democrats to hone in on certain legislative goals.

"We're not gonna have a nuclear bomb approach here, and just scatter things and throw it on the wall and see what sticks," Goodin says. "We’re going to be very focused as we move forward because the constituents that we represent have been very clear with us, 'Here's what we would like to see the state of Indiana become.'"

Goodin has built a reputation as a relatively socially conservative Democrat.

In 2015 he crafted an amendment to a health care bill that would have allowed the state to randomly drug test welfare recipients. He later retracted the amendment, after he said several organizations expressed concern.

In 2011 Goodin voted in favor of a proposed constitutional ban on gay marriage.

Goodin, a resident of Austin, was first elected to the Indiana House in 2000. He also serves as Superintendent of Crothersville Community Schools.

Senate President Pro Tem David Long released a statement following Goodin's election:

"I have known Dr. Goodin for a number of years and have great respect for his work ethic and abilities. I look forward to working with him and his caucus in the upcoming legislative session as we seek to continue to build upon our strong record of creating opportunities and successes for all Hoosier citizens."