Randall “Randy” Retter of Hagerstown is running for Indiana House of Representatives District 56 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: I am a graduate of Ball State University with a degree in Criminal Justice and an honor graduate of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. I have completed thousands of hours of professional training, including leadership development through the National Sheriffs’ Institute. I currently serve as a two-time elected Sheriff and previously served as President of the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association. Through that role, I worked with state legislators to develop policy and build relationships that allow me to be effective immediately at the Statehouse.
Reasons you ran: First, I want to bring experienced, accountable leadership to the Statehouse, someone who understands public safety, budgeting, and the real challenges facing rural communities. My career has prepared me to focus on practical, results-driven solutions.
Second, I believe our district deserves representation that reflects our values: supporting safe communities, responsible spending, and strong local economies. I want to ensure the voices of Wayne County and surrounding communities are heard at the Statehouse.
Top priorities: My top three priorities are public safety, protecting taxpayers through responsible government spending, and strengthening our local economy while maintaining access to affordable rural healthcare.
On public safety, I will support school safety initiatives, first responders, and data-driven strategies to reduce recidivism and keep violent offenders off the streets.
On fiscal responsibility, I will bring a taxpayer-focused approach to budgeting, ensuring transparency, accountability, and careful evaluation of major spending decisions.
On economic growth and healthcare, I will support small businesses and family farms, promote workforce development, and advocate for policies that protect access to healthcare in rural communities.
Specific skills: I bring proven leadership and accountability. As a two-time elected Sheriff, I have managed budgets, led teams, and implemented data-driven strategies to improve outcomes and build public trust. My leadership training and a lifetime of experience has strengthened my ability to make thoughtful, responsible decisions.
I also bring established working relationships at the Statehouse. As President of the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association, I worked with legislators on policy and understand how to navigate the process. That experience allows me to be effective immediately and deliver results for this district.
We need stronger communication and input from local communities when major decisions are being
Randall “Randy” Retter
considered. Too often, policies or large-scale proposals move forward without enough focus on how they will impact daily life in our communities. …
Should continue: Indiana’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and balanced budgets has helped keep our state on strong financial footing. That discipline allows us to fund essential services while protecting taxpayers. Continuing that approach—while ensuring rural communities receive their fair share of resources—will be important moving forward.
Needs to change: We need stronger communication and input from local communities when major decisions are being considered. Too often, policies or large-scale proposals move forward without enough focus on how they will impact daily life in our communities.
I will work to ensure decisions—especially those affecting infrastructure, costs, and quality of life—are carefully evaluated, clearly communicated, and shaped by the people they impact.
Accept election results: Yes. I respect the election process and the voice of the voters. Regardless of the outcome, I will continue to serve my community and support the integrity of our democratic system.
Funding strategies: I will focus on responsible budgeting and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively. That includes evaluating programs based on results, eliminating waste, and prioritizing essential services like public safety and infrastructure.
I also believe a strong economy is key to long-term financial stability. Supporting small businesses, family farms, and workforce development helps grow revenue without increasing the burden on taxpayers.
It is also important to ensure rural communities receive fair and appropriate funding so they can continue to grow and provide essential services. Thoughtful, transparent decision-making will be critical to sustaining strong public finances.
Engaging the public: I will be accessible and proactive in seeking input from residents. That includes attending community events, meeting with local leaders, and maintaining open lines of communication so constituents can easily share concerns and ideas.
I also believe in engaging people early in the decision-making process, not after decisions are made. Listening and staying connected to the community will be a priority.
Other comments: I have spent my career serving this community and working to earn the trust of the people I represent. So much so, that Wayne County has elected me twice as Sheriff. I believe leadership should reflect the values of the people who live and work here. In that, accountability, accessibility, and doing the job the right way are essential for a position in public office.
I’m running to bring a steady, common-sense approach to the Statehouse, building on the work of Dr. Brad Barrett. My overarching focus will be on strengthening public safety, protecting taxpayers, and supporting local communities. I also bring the experience and relationships needed to be effective from day one.
I would be honored to earn your support, and I ask for your vote so I can take your voice to Indianapolis.
A version of this article appeared in the April 1 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.