Indianapolis, January 22, 2026
In a significant political shift, the Indiana Senate Judiciary Committee has seen a change in leadership with the removal of Senator Liz Brown as chair. Following her resignation from the Senate Republican Caucus leadership, Senator Cyndi Carrasco has been appointed as the new chair. This change comes after the Senate’s rejection of Brown’s congressional redistricting proposal, marking a pivotal moment in Indiana’s legislative landscape.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Leadership Shakeup in State Senate Judiciary Committee
Indianapolis, Indiana – A significant realignment in the Indiana Senate Judiciary Committee has just occurred with the removal of State Senator Liz Brown (R-Fort Wayne) as chair. This decision comes on the heels of her resignation from the Senate Republican Caucus leadership, following the Senate’s rejection of a congressional redistricting proposal she championed. The appointment of Senator Cyndi Carrasco (R-Indianapolis) as the new chair marks a pivotal change in the committee’s leadership, potentially impacting various legislative discussions in the State.
Details of the Leadership Change
Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray has officially announced Senator Brown’s removal from the chair position, a role she had occupied since 2021. The shift in leadership follows a critical moment for Brown, who resigned from her role as Assistant Majority Floor Leader in December 2025, a position she was poised to hold until the end of that term.
Background on the Redistricting Proposal
Senator Brown was a key advocate of a congressional redistricting plan designed to reshape Indiana’s congressional maps in favor of Republican candidates. However, her proposal faced significant opposition and was ultimately rejected by the Senate in a 31-19 vote on December 11, 2025. This defeat may have prompted her decision to step down from her leadership role within the Senate Republican Caucus.
Senator Brown’s Political Career
Since first elected to the Indiana Senate in 2014, Senator Brown has played a notable role in the state’s political landscape. Holding the Judiciary Committee chair since 2021, she was involved in legislative efforts concerning immigration and judicial reforms, making her an influential figure in shaping Indiana’s legal framework.
Implications of the Leadership Change
The removal of Senator Brown signifies a shift in the dynamics of the Senate’s leadership, which will likely influence its direction on judicial and legislative matters. By appointing Senator Cyndi Carrasco as Brown’s successor, the committee can expect a continuation of policies similar to those championed by Brown, particularly regarding issues surrounding redistricting and the judicial landscape.
Looking Ahead
As the Indiana General Assembly convenes, the Senate Judiciary Committee, under its new leadership, must navigate upcoming legislative proposals, including key discussions on judicial systems and law enforcement practices. The committee’s new direction will be critical as Indiana faces evolving political landscapes and demands from constituents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to Senator Liz Brown’s removal as chair of the Indiana Senate Judiciary Committee?
Senator Liz Brown was removed from her position as chair of the Indiana Senate Judiciary Committee following her resignation from the Senate Republican Caucus leadership. This change occurred after the Senate’s rejection of a congressional redistricting proposal she strongly supported.
Who has replaced Senator Brown as the chair of the Judiciary Committee?
Senator Cyndi Carrasco (R-Indianapolis) has been appointed as the new chair of the Indiana Senate Judiciary Committee.
What was the congressional redistricting proposal that Senator Brown supported?
Senator Brown supported a congressional redistricting plan aimed at redrawing Indiana’s congressional maps to favor Republican candidates. The proposal was rejected by the Senate in a 31-19 vote on December 11, 2025.
What is Senator Brown’s political background?
First elected to the Indiana Senate in 2014, Senator Brown has served as the chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee since 2021. She has been involved in various legislative initiatives, including those related to immigration and judicial reforms.
What are the implications of this leadership change?
The removal of Senator Brown from the Judiciary Committee chairmanship signifies a shift in the Senate’s leadership dynamics, particularly concerning the handling of judicial and legislative matters. The appointment of Senator Carrasco suggests continuity in the committee’s approach to legislative issues.
Key Features of the Leadership Change
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Leadership Change | Senator Liz Brown removed as chair of the Indiana Senate Judiciary Committee. |
| New Appointment | Senator Cyndi Carrasco appointed as the new chair. |
| Redistricting Proposal | Senator Brown supported a congressional redistricting plan rejected by the Senate. |
| Political Background | Senator Brown has served in the Senate since 2014 and chaired the Judiciary Committee since 2021. |
| Implications | Shift in Senate leadership dynamics, particularly in handling judicial and legislative matters. |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
