Randy Maxwell Wins Senate District 43 Caucus

Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at 1:22 PM

He will fill the remainder of Chip Perfect's term.

Randy Maxwell. Photo by Travis Thayer, Eagle Country 99.3.

(Dillsboro, Ind.) - There is a new State Senator-elect in District 43.

The Indiana Republican Party held a caucus at the Dillsboro Civic Club on Tuesday night to fill the vacancy left by Chip Perfect (R-Lawrenceburg).

Randy Maxwell, Samuel Mortenson, and Joseph Volk were the three candidates that filed the appropriate paperwork at least 72 hours prior to the convening of the caucus. Each was allotted three minutes to address the caucus prior to the vote being taken.

Maxwell, who was endorsed by Chip Perfect, won the caucus with 56 votes. Mortenson received 17 votes, while Volk garnered seven votes.

"It was a difficult decision for me to resign from the Senate but knowing you all would be here to select a replacement made it just a hair easier," said Perfect.

He added that it takes a unique skill, experience level and personality to be effective in the legislature, in addition to financial acumen which Maxwell has from owning multiple businesses.

"I'm here tonight to introduce Randy Maxwell and support him because I believe he has those characteristics, which we need," said Perfect.

Maxwell will carry on Perfect's term, which runs through 2026, and will serve Dearborn, Jefferson, Ohio, Scott and Switzerland counties, and portions of Jennings County.

Following the win, Maxwell explained why he decided to run.

"It's something that crossed my mind for years. When I was growing up I was a Senate Page for Senator Johnny Nugent all through school and I didn't know the opportunity would ever arise, but it did and it just seemed right at this stage of my life," said Maxwell.

Perfect announced his resignation in late August, citing that family obligations and business and personal responsibilities are affecting his ability to fully give the Indiana Senate the focus it requires.

Maxwell does not believe he will have the same issue.

"I have a really good team at Maxwell Construction and they don't need me to get stuff done. So, its time for me to give some time and commitment back to the people and that's what I'm doing," said Maxwell.

Maxwell will also have some extra time following the high school football season. He tells Eagle Country 99.3 that he will be done coaching following his son, Dylan's senior season at East Central.

Senator Perfect's resignation is effective September 26.

He is the second local legislator to resign this summer. State Rep. Randy Frye (R-Greensburg) announced his retirement from the Indiana General Assembly in June. Alex Zimmerman has since filled the vacancy left by Frye by winning the House District 67 caucus in July.

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