Jeff Raatz of Indiana is running for Indiana state Senate District 27 as a Republican candidate in the 2026 primary election.
2026 Election Guide
The Western Wayne News asked candidates in contested races for the May 5 primary election the same questions.
- List your education and employment history highlights (100 words or less).
- What are two specific reasons you decided to run for this office? (100 words or less.)
- If elected/reelected, what are your top three priorities for your time in office? (150 words or less.)
- What are two specific skills you would bring to the office to benefit constituents, if elected/reelected? (100 words or less.)
- What’s one aspect of the government body you’re seeking to join or lead that you think is working well and should continue? (100 words or less.)
- What’s one aspect of the body you’re seeking to join or lead that you think needs to change, and what specific action(s) would you pursue to change it? (100 words or less.)
- Will you accept the results of the election process even if you are not elected/reelected? (50 words or less.)
- With state and federal changes limiting funding for government services, what specific strategies will you pursue if elected to sustain the finances of the body you’re seeking to join or lead? (150 words or less)
- Beyond encouraging attendance at public meetings, how do you plan to involve residents in decision making processes that the office you seek is a part of? (100 words or less.)
- Any other comments you’d like to share about your candidacy? (150 words or less.)
Candidates were given three weeks to respond with a firm deadline and word limits. We share their answers here, unedited from their original form.
For full election coverage, visit the Western Wayne News 2026 Election Guide.
Bio highlights: Masters of Science in Management Indiana University East. Bachelor of Business Baker College of Michigan. I grew up on a large apple and cherry orchard in Michigan, and learned hard work early in life. I transitioned to industrial supplies in the automotive & secondary automotive industry during my college years and beyond. I taught college part-time as an adjunct and I spent a decade working with at-risk youth at a Christian boarding school. I was elected to the State Senate in November 2014. I also own a business coaching and a career coaching LLC.
Reasons you ran: I became interested politically before I moved to Indiana, and more so in 2011. In 2014 Senator Allen Paul decided to retire creating an open seat and I made the decision to run. I always desired the challenge of untangling complex issues and functioned well finding answers. My goal has always been to leave a legacy of improvement, not just maintenance. I am seeking re-election to keep tackling the tough issues with a conservative lens. I will do all I can to ensure the next generation inherits a state that is thriving.
Top priorities: Education – In 2025, Indiana’s 3rd & 8th grade reading scores didn’t just improve—they led the way in the nation, jumping from 19th in 4th grade and 17th in 8th grade to number 6th in the nation. As Education Chairman, good policy paired with hardworking teachers changes the trajectory of our future. We’ve set the gold standard for reading; now we have begun to do the same for math and expect great results. Lastly, increase utilization of our Higher Education Institutions for local workforce preparation. Affordability/Economic Development – Affordable living coupled with economic development are a must. I will work with state and local Economic Development leaders as much as possible to help forge a successful future full of opportunity for all. Roads and Infrastructure – Good roads both state, local and other infrastructure are imperative for East Central Indiana to be attractive for economic growth. Finally, continue funding discussions for this arena.
Specific skills: Integrating sincere desire and relationships are essential in successfully working with those I come in contact with. Creating open dialog is necessary regardless of the issue and whether there is agreement on the topic. Compromise is a part of success, often threading a needle to accomplish the task at hand successfully without burdening other areas. It is important for me to keep a conservative perspective on the issues at hand. Finally, a leadership style where the goal is to serve by listening intentionally in making informed decisions while tackling the issues.
Serving this district has been an honor for me. As a conservative, my pledge is to continue to listen and do all that is possible to create an environment in East Central Indiana that is conducive for people to live productive lives with the least amount of government intrusion possible. …
Jeff raatz
Should continue: Several years ago, The State of Indiana, with my positive vote, amended the State Constitution requiring Indiana pass a balanced budget biannually. In view of our Federal Government spending behaviors, the Feds have added to the debt most every year for the last century. Indiana maintains a $2.4b structural surplus, a staggering amount of money, which accounts for only 45 days of operating costs for the state. Looking back to the 2008 housing crisis Indiana was able to weather the storm due to the surplus and now has built it again.
Needs to change: Cost containment due to inflation has seemingly become an issue for many cities, towns, counties, and the state. The balancing act of affordability and providing services that we are all accustomed to is not an easy task. While this is not a new problem, it is front and center in many arenas such as healthcare and childcare. The state has worked diligently to contain costs and will continue. I will continue to work in making sure that the state does all it can to maintain service levels as a priority. The answer is in statewide economic development to organically increase funding streams.
Accept election results: I will accept the election results.
Funding strategies: Costs have risen significantly in the last several years which have caused everyone to pay more for goods and services. The government is not exempt from these economic pressures, as evidenced by the revenue estimation shortfalls witnessed during the 2025 budget session. Thus, it can become a balancing act on the level of services the citizenry is accustomed to or are necessary. We must balance maintaining current service levels with prioritizing economic development creating projected increased revenues. Lastly, all people don’t use all services and have differing preferences/needs which come into play of creating a divide.
Engaging the public: I have several email addresses at the statehouse that are available. In addition, most county parties and/or other organizations generally host legislative updates during or post the legislative session that are generally open to the public. In addition, I readily share my cell number and personal email address out to anyone who desires. My statehouse office receives calls daily to answer questions or provide assistance. Also, we send emails with weekly updates and finally always encourage those who need assistance or to weigh in on legislative issues to call me personally.
Other comments: Serving this district has been an honor for me. As a conservative, my pledge is to continue to listen and do all that is possible to create an environment in East Central Indiana that is conducive for people to live productive lives with the least amount of government intrusion possible. We will accomplish this by creating an environment that attracts and retains people, provides safety, economic opportunity, and an exceptional educational opportunity for all. Finally, I have represented this district with honesty, integrity, and transparency. Therefore, I humbly ask for your vote on May 5, 2026.
A version of this article appeared in the April 1 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.