Delaware County GOP Chair Tim Overton Joins Crowded Republican Primary in Indiana House Rep District 34

Tim Overton, the current chairman of the Delaware County Republican Party, has officially filed his candidacy today for the Republican nomination in Indiana House of Representatives District 34. This move intensifies the GOP primary contest for the Muncie-area seat, which has been held by Democrats in recent election cycles.

District 34, encompassing parts of Delaware County including much of Muncie, will see an open seat in 2026 following incumbent Democrat Sue Errington's announcement late last year that she would not seek reelection. Errington, who has represented the district since 2012, endorsed Muncie City Council member Sara Gullion as her successor on the Democratic side. Overton's entry brings the Republican field to four candidates vying for the nomination in the May 5, 2026, primary:

• Randall McCalister, a self-described blue-collar conservative who filed early and maintains an active campaign focused on faith, freedom, personal responsibility, and common-sense policies. He positions himself as a hardworking Hoosier outsider to politics.

• Chris Walker, a longtime educator and principal in the Muncie area, bringing frontline experience in public education to his bid.

• Richard Ivy, former deputy mayor of Muncie and current director of human resources for the Muncie Sanitary District, who announced his candidacy in late 2025.

• Tim Overton, now the latest to join, leveraging his leadership role in the local Republican Party.

As Delaware County GOP chair, Overton has been a visible figure in local conservative circles, advocating for Republican priorities and party organization in the region. His background includes pastoral experience—he serves as a pastor—and involvement in community and political discussions, including past commentary on religious liberty issues.

The crowded Republican primary reflects growing interest in flipping the district, which has leaned Democratic but could be competitive in a favorable cycle for the GOP. Candidates are expected to emphasize local issues such as economic development in Muncie, education, public safety, and fiscal responsibility as they court voters ahead of the primary.

The winner of the Republican primary will face Sara Gullion in the general election on November 3, 2026. Hoosier Enquirer will continue to track developments in this race and provide updates on candidate platforms, events, and endorsements as the campaign season progresses. Stay tuned for more coverage from the heart of Indiana politics.