Rokita Backs Challenger in GOP Primary for Former Seat

Attorney General supports state rep over incumbent congressman in Indiana race

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:04pm

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Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita is endorsing state Rep. Craig Haggard, R-Mooresville, in the upcoming Republican primary for the 4th Congressional District over four-term incumbent U.S. Rep. Jim Baird, R-Greencastle.

Why it matters

Rokita's endorsement of a challenger over a sitting member of Congress in the GOP primary is an unusual move that could signal a shift in the party's power dynamics in Indiana. The 4th District race is seen as an early test of the Republican party's direction ahead of the 2028 elections.

The details

Rokita, a former congressman himself, is backing Haggard, a state representative from Mooresville, over Baird, the four-term incumbent from Greencastle. The primary election is scheduled for May 5th.

  • The GOP primary election is scheduled for May 5, 2026.

The players

Todd Rokita

The current Attorney General of Indiana and a former U.S. Congressman.

Craig Haggard

A Republican state representative from Mooresville, Indiana who is challenging the incumbent congressman in the GOP primary.

Jim Baird

The four-term Republican U.S. Congressman from Indiana's 4th Congressional District who is being challenged in the primary.

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What they’re saying

“I'm proud to endorse Craig Haggard in this race. He's the conservative leader Indiana needs in Congress.”

— Todd Rokita, Indiana Attorney General

What’s next

The winner of the May 5th Republican primary will face the Democratic nominee in the November 2026 general election for Indiana's 4th Congressional District.

The takeaway

Rokita's endorsement of a primary challenger over an incumbent Republican congressman signals a potential power shift within the Indiana GOP ahead of the 2028 election cycle, as the party navigates its future direction.