INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Secretary of State Connie Lawson, who has served longer in the position than anyone in state history, will resign with two years left in her second term, her office announced this morning (Monday, Feb. 15)
Lawson will submit a formal resignation once Gov. Eric Holcomb selects her successor and that person is ready to serve, the office said in a news release.
“I have dedicated the last 32 years of my life to public service,” Lawson said in the news release. “I have served with all of my heart and soul. It has been an honor to serve, but it is time for me to step down.
“Like many Hoosiers, 2020 took a toll on me. I am resigning so I can focus on my health and my family. I will work with Governor Holcomb to ensure our next secretary of state is up to the task and has the tools and resources to hit the ground running.”
Holcomb said Lawson will be missed at the Statehouse.
Governor Eric J. Holcomb gave the following statement regarding Indiana Secretary of State Connie Lawson announcement’s that she will step down:
“Indiana’s own Iron Lady, Secretary of State Connie Lawson, has long defined what true public service and leadership is and ought to be all about,” the governor said in a statement sent Monday morning. “Throughout her time in county, legislative and statewide office, she set the standard for commitment, composure, class and credibility. No matter the year or issues of the day, citizens could bank on Connie Lawson leading the way and inspiring others to follow.
“A trailblazer, holder of state records, even serving alongside three Governors as Secretary of State, through it all, Connie has remained universally respected by veterans and the next generation alike.
“I’ll forever count myself fortunate and proud to say, ‘I served with Connie Lawson.’”
Lawson was first appointed to the position in March 2012 by then-Gov. Mitch Daniels. She successfully ran for election in 2014 and 2018.
The secretary of state oversees elections and regulations for businesses in the state.
Prior to serving as secretary of state, Lawson served in the Indiana Senate for 16 years. She also formerly was Hendricks County clerk.
