President Donald Trump on August 18 posted on X that he endorsed Indiana State Senator Chris Garten, who was unanimously voted by colleagues to become the next Senate President Pro Tempore of the Indiana State Senate. Trump credited Garten with helping secure additional Republican seats in the House of Representatives, saying that if state leaders had followed his requests, the party would have gained two more seats.
Trump criticized outgoing Senate President Pro Tempore Rod Bray, accusing him of failing to act and calling for his resignation. "Rod Bray should resign from Office because he has no chance of winning," Trump wrote. He also noted that Indiana was the only state where this situation occurred, despite him winning the state six times in landslides, including the highest vote total in state history.
The president thanked several other individuals who helped in the effort, including Trevor De Vries, Brian Schmutzler, Blake Fiechter, Tracey Powell, Paula Copenhaver, and Michelle Davis. He also expressed support for Brenda Wilson, saying she would return next time when there would not be two candidates with the same name—a "dirty trick."
Trump concluded: "The Indiana State Senate is in good hands with Chris Garten — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!"
