State Rep. Brad Barrett says he will conclude his time representing House District 56 in the Indiana House of Representatives after eight years, and will not seek reelection in 2026.
According to a statement released by the Indiana House Republican Campaign Committee and confirmed by a representative for Barrett, he will finish out the remainder of his current term, which concludes in November.
“Serving the people of Wayne and Henry counties has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Barrett said in the release. “I’m deeply grateful for the trust Hoosiers have placed in me and for the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated colleagues to improve the health and well‑being of our state.”
Barrett did not name a specific reason for his decision.
The announcement comes on the first day of candidate filings for the 2026 election, which will include a number of county-wide and local offices that voters could decide on in the fall. The deadline for members of the Republican or Democratic party to file for the primary election is noon Friday, Feb. 6.
Barrett was first elected to office in 2018. He defeated three-term incumbent Richard “Dick” Hamm in the Republican primary that year, and then defeated Democratic party candidate Jeff Locke in the general election. In 2022, Barrett defeated Mark Pierce in the Republican primary and Democrat C. Yvonne Washington in the general election to retain his seat.
Barrett’s time in elected office followed a long career as a doctor and surgeon, including 25 years practicing in Wayne County. He was also a chief of surgery for Reid Health.
Much of Barrett’s time in the state legislature has been focused on issues related to health care and rural communities. In 2025 he introduced legislation to provide stronger patient protections and medical billing standards, along with a measure allowing Wayne County communities to implement food and beverage taxes. He currently serves as chair of the House Public Health Committee.
“There is still important work to do, and I remain committed to representing our community with the same dedication and integrity that have guided me throughout my career,” Barrett said.
A version of this article appeared in the January 14 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.