State Senate Candidates Face Off Ahead of Primary Election

Incumbent Liz Brown and challenger Darren Vogt sit down with 21Alive to make their case to voters.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 1:57am

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A cinematic painting of two politicians sitting at a table in a simple office, their faces obscured by shadows and warm diagonal light, conveying the tension and high stakes of an important political meeting.The high-stakes battle for a crucial state senate seat has voters in Indiana's 15th district closely watching the primary race between the incumbent and her challenger.Fort Wayne Today

With Indiana's Primary Election Day just around the corner on May 5, 21Alive News interviewed the two candidates vying for the State Senate District 15 seat - incumbent Senator Liz Brown and her challenger Darren Vogt. The full interviews were aired across the station's newscasts, giving voters a chance to hear directly from the candidates on the key issues and their visions for the district.

Why it matters

This state senate race is a closely watched contest, as the winner will help shape Indiana's legislative agenda for the next two years. Voters in the district are eager to learn more about the candidates' platforms and qualifications ahead of making their choice at the ballot box.

The details

The interviews with Brown and Vogt covered a range of topics important to the district, including the economy, education, and public safety. Both candidates highlighted their experience and track records, making their case to voters on why they are the best choice to represent the district's interests in the state legislature.

  • Primary Election Day is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
  • The 21Alive interviews with the candidates aired in the days leading up to the primary.

The players

Liz Brown

The incumbent State Senator for Indiana's 15th district, seeking re-election in the upcoming primary.

Darren Vogt

The challenger running against the incumbent Senator Liz Brown in the State Senate District 15 primary election.

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What they’re saying

“As your state senator, I will continue fighting for the issues that matter most to the families and businesses in our district.”

— Liz Brown, State Senator

“It's time for new leadership and a fresh perspective in the state senate. I'm ready to be the voice our district deserves.”

— Darren Vogt, Challenger

What’s next

Voters in Indiana's 15th state senate district will head to the polls on Tuesday, May 5th to cast their ballots in the primary election. The winner of the Republican primary will advance to face the Democratic nominee in the November general election.

The takeaway

This state senate race offers voters a clear choice between the incumbent and a challenger, providing an opportunity to evaluate the candidates' visions and qualifications ahead of making their decision at the ballot box. The outcome of this primary will have significant implications for the legislative priorities in Indiana over the next two years.