Sen. Jim Arnold Will Not Seek Re-Election Next Year

Staff Report - The StatehouseFile.com

INDIANAPOLIS ­­– Sen. Jim Arnold, D-LaPorte, will not seek re-election in order to spend time with his wife and family.

Arnold said 2016 marks his 50th year in public service.

"I feel privileged to have served my community for many years,” Arnold said in a statement. “Although this was a difficult decision, I’m not looking back. This is the best decision for me, my wife, and my family.”

In Jan. 2007, Arnold retired as the LaPorte County Sheriff after 36 years of service in law enforcement. He began his legislative career in March 2007 after the death of former Sen. Anita Bowser. He represents District 8 which encompasses the majority of LaPorte County and the eastern part of Michigan City.

Arnold has been a strong advocate for public safety and Hoosier veterans. He proposed legislation focused on improving public safety and the status of Indiana’s veterans. Arnold also aimed a large portion of his legislative efforts towards animal safety and stiffening the penalties for animal fighting.

Arnold serves as the Ranking Democrat of three Senate Standing Committees including Ethics, Public Policy, and Homeland Security, Transportation and Veterans Affairs.

Arnold’s work has been recognized on multiple occasions by multiple organizations during his time as a senator.

In 2012, Arnold was recognized as the Legislator of the Year by the Disabled American Veterans. Governor Joe. Kernan awarded Arnold the Sagamore of the Wabash in 2004.

TheStatehouseFile.com is a news website powered by Franklin College journalism students.