On Sunday, moderate Democrat Ben Sharkey announced his intent to run for State Representative for District 17 in 2026. Ben previously ran for Marshall County Commissioner in 2024. He was also recently appointed to the Argos Town Police Commission. Currently, Ben works as a truck driver, transporting fuel, and said, “I am an average blue-collar worker and understand very well the challenges that average everyday Hoosiers face.”
A few of Sharkey’s highlighted stances include eliminating sales tax on many health and hygiene items, supporting and strengthening public schools, reforming the family court system, advocating for women’s health and bodily autonomy, repealing legislative immunities, term limits, expanding employee rights and protections, and responsible gun ownership, among others. Sharkey has also stated that during his campaign, he intends to hold multiple town hall meetings that will be open to everyone, so he can hear firsthand what people are concerned about. He said in the news release, “If I’m elected, my job will be to represent everyone in the district and the best way I can do that is to actually make myself available for people, regardless of political affiliation, to talk to.”
More information about Ben Sharkey and ways to contact him can be found online at www.sharkeyforhoosiers.com.
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