INDIANAPOLIS (WOWO) — Indiana Governor Mike Braun delivered his 2026 State of the State address to a joint session of the Indiana General Assembly on Wednesday night, emphasizing affordability, job growth and expanding opportunity for Hoosiers, even as statewide political battles simmer on issues like redistricting.
“Affordability is our highest priority,” Braun told lawmakers gathered in the House chamber, outlining what he described as continued economic momentum for the Hoosier State and policies focused on making everyday life more manageable for working families.
Economic Strength & Jobs
Braun touted Indiana’s robust economic performance, citing faster growth in the state’s real GDP compared to the national average and pointing to steady wage gains.
“The time is now, and the place is Indiana, and the state of our state is strong,” Braun declared during the address.
Officials noted an increase in average hourly earnings, more than $7,500 higher annually — even as the cost to attract new jobs dropped dramatically from around $46,000 two years ago to about $15,000 per job.
He also celebrated new industry investments, including a surge in high-wage life sciences jobs, with more than 1,300 positions coming to communities across Indiana as major companies expand operations in the state. Braun framed the investments as evidence that Indiana is the Midwest’s growth engine for jobs and bigger paychecks.
Affordability: Utilities, Housing, Wages
Throughout the address, Braun repeatedly returned to the theme of affordability, from energy rates to housing costs, and announced initiatives aimed at lowering expenses for consumers.
“We’re continuing to deliver high-quality essential services that Hoosiers rely on, while you keep more of your money — because it’s not ours, it’s yours,” he said, drawing applause.
As part of that push, Braun highlighted the work of Utility Consumer Counselor Commissioner Abby Gray, saying she was appointed to keep utility rate hikes in check, even recommending decreases in early requests for increases.
On housing affordability, Braun criticized unnecessary regulations and said reducing bureaucracy is critical to making homeownership more accessible.
“Home prices have surged because we aren’t building enough, and unnecessary regulations are driving up costs,” Braun said.
Child Care & Workforce Notes
Braun acknowledged that issues like child care costs remain a challenge, saying he hopes to devote next year’s budget session to exploring partnership programs that could help lower costs.
“I look forward to digging in … on what we can do to invest in lowering child care costs,” he said.
Education also received attention, with Braun noting gains in reading scores, record-high graduation rates and plans to roll out new school accountability metrics.
Redistricting & Political Tension
Braun did not mention the December redistricting battle that saw the Senate reject his plans to redraw congressional maps, a campaign priority — but subsequent reactions underscored lingering tension. Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray called Braun’s speech “a good speech” and reiterated a desire to keep working with Braun and the House, even as past disagreements remain.
Responses From Both Sides
Democrats seized on Braun’s focus on affordability to highlight what they described as fractured GOP policy approaches in recent years. Senate Democratic Leader Shelli Yoder said state efforts have left some families struggling with child care and other essential needs.
Republican State Sen. Jim Tomes also issued a statement on the speech, underscoring party support for Braun’s direction, including his emphasis on affordability and economic growth.
Governor’s Closing Message
Braun closed by reiterating his confidence in Indiana’s prospects and articulating a vision where Hoosiers’ dollars go further, opportunities multiply, and the state continues to grow as a place where hard work pays off and families can thrive.
