State Senator Drops Out Of Indiana 6th Congressional District Race

By Mike Perleberg Indiana State Senator Mike Crider has decided to exit the race for Indiana's 6th Congressional District in 2018. (Greenfield, Ind.) – The Republican field for Indiana’s 6th Congressional District is down one candidate long before any vote is cast. Indiana State Senator Mike Crider of Greenfield said in a Facebook post on his campaign page that he does not have the financial support needed to continue campaigning. “Unfortunately, congressional campaigns are very expensive endeavors and due to that we have determined that we do not and likely will not have the ability to spread our message as widely as will be required to achieve victory in May. While disappointed the campaign has come to an end, I am at peace with this decision and know that we all worked hard to put together a winning strategy,” Crider wrote. “The only negative to this whole adventure is that I find myself a bit jaded as I realize that this scenario is likely playing out in races all across the country. People who would be quality candidates simply cannot participate because they cannot afford to self-finance campaigns and the political establishment locks down the remaining financial support. I hope that whomever is successful in this contest is serious about having the responsibilities of the position and not just having the position. There is much work to be done.” Crider said he will remain committed to serving in the Indiana Senate representing Senate District 28. Still in the race is Greg Pence, older brother of Vice President Mike Pence. Greg Pence, of Columbus, launched his 6th District campaign in October with an eye on representing the same district his brother did in Washington for more than a decade. Other Republicans still in the race are Muncie businessman Johnathan Lamb and military veteran Stephen Mackenzie, of Fortville. Democrat candidates seeking their party’s nomination include Rising Sun attorney Lane Siekman, Greensburg attorney Jim Pruett, Muncie Matters Alliance founder Jeannine Lee-Lake, and Arturas Kerelis of Beverly Shores. The 6th District seat is currently occupied by Republican Congressman Luke Messer. Messer, however, will be running for the Republican nomination for Indiana’s U.S. Senate seat in 2018. RELATED STORIES: Greg Pence Plans To Run For Congress Air Force Reserve Member Enters GOP Field For Indiana 6th District Two Republicans Aiming To Replace Outgoing Congressman Messer Siekman Giving Run For Congress Another Try