Rokita's Former Seat Will Be A Race Between Jim Baird, Tobi Beck

Democrat Tobi Beck and Republican Jim Baird will face off in November to fill Todd Rokita's seat in the U.S. House. Rokita’s departure made for a wide and competitive race. Seven candidates sought the Republican seat and six for the Democrat spot.

Indiana's 4th House district covers 16 counties in western, central and northern Indiana including Kokomo and Lafayette. Many of the counties are mostly rural and Republicans have represented the district for more than 20 years.

During the campaign two Republican candidates emphasized their connection to Vice President Mike Pence. Former state Rep. Steve Braun and Diego Morales both worked for Pence when he was Indiana's governor.

Braun led the candidates in campaign financing and endorsements.

Of the Democrats, Beck took an early lead in the race. An Army veteran, Beck emphasized veterans issues and health care. She started campaigning last year and has made an effort to meet voters.

“We’ve got people who, more so than I ever expected, people actively concerned about national debt and international trade, large segments of people who are worried about how divisive we’ve become,” says Beck.

She hopes her grassroots campaign will sway Hoosier voters in November.