The Indiana Senate has a new member. A private Republican caucus chose Kyle Walker Sunday evening to replace Sen. Jim Merritt (R-Indianapolis), whos retiring after a 30-year career.

State Sen. Jim Merritt (R-Indianapolis) announced Monday he is retiring after 30 years in the legislature. He said he will step down on Nov. 4.

Sen. Jim Merritt said in a statement he would resign Nov. 4 from the seat to which he was first elected in 1990.

A state Senate committee gutted language in a controversial coal bill on Thursday. The bill aimed to keep coal plants open until Indiana can develop a statewide energy plan.

Incumbent Democrat Joe Hogsett collected more than 71 percent of the vote to win a second term as Mayor of Indianapolis. Democrats also picked up six seats on the Indianapolis City-County-Council, adding to their majority.

Democratic incumbent Mayor Joe Hogsett and his opponent, Republican State Sen. Jim Merritt, made their last push in the race for Indianapolis mayor Tuesday.

Indianapolis mayoral candidates Democratic incumbent Joe Hogsett, Republican State Sen. Jim Merritt and Libertarian Douglas McNaughton participated in the races final debate Monday night.

The African American Coalition of Indianapolis held a debate on issues that affect the black community.

Voters will decide the next mayor of Indianapolis on Nov. 5. Ahead of that decision, WFYI City Reporter Darian Benson spoke with the candidates.

Republican State Sen. Jim Merritt said Tuesday if he becomes mayor of Indianapolis, he will appoint a deputy mayor of education to promote quality schools, invest in minority-owned businesses and create more affordable housing to drive down racial inequalities.