Indiana State Senator Andrea Hunley Announces Decision Not to Seek Reelection

Indiana State Senator Andrea Hunley (D-Indianapolis), the Assistant Minority Leader in the Senate Democratic Caucus, announced on January 16, 2026, that she will not seek reelection when her current term concludes in November 2026. This decision has sparked widespread speculation that Hunley may be positioning herself for a run at the Indianapolis mayor's office in the 2027 election.

Background and Career HighlightsBorn in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hunley holds a Bachelor of Secondary Education and Teaching from Indiana University Bloomington (2006), a Master of Education from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (2010), and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Indiana University Bloomington (2011).

 Before entering politics, she built a distinguished career in education, serving as a high school English teacher in the Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township, an assistant principal in the Metropolitan School District of Washington Township, and a K-8 principal with Indianapolis Public Schools.

 Hunley entered the political arena in 2022, winning a competitive Democratic primary for Indiana Senate District 46 with 43.9% of the vote against four opponents. She went on to secure the general election victory with 72.9% of the vote, flipping the seat from Republican control. District 46 encompasses downtown Indianapolis and surrounding neighborhoods on the east and south sides.

 In November 2024, she was elected Assistant Minority Leader, becoming the second-highest-ranking Democrat in the Indiana Senate. During her tenure, Hunley has focused on issues affecting working families, education, and urban development. She championed legislation that secured over $20 million for Indianapolis's homeless population, $50 million to improve road conditions, and protections for expanding rapid bus transit.

 Her efforts have earned her numerous accolades, including Legislator of the Year from the Indiana School Social Work Association (2025), Politician of the Year from the Indianapolis Black Chamber of Commerce (2025), and Legislative Conservation Champion from Indiana Conservation Voters (2025). Hunley serves on key committees such as Utilities, Commerce & Technology, Education, Pensions & Labor, Tax & Fiscal Policy, Ethics, and Rules.

 The Announcement and SpeculationIn her statement, Hunley expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and emphasized her ongoing commitment to public service: "While my role may change, my commitment to this work will not. Our city needs bold leadership to be a world-class destination for people to work, play, study, and stay."

 She confirmed she will complete her full term, ensuring continuity in representation until a new senator is elected. The timing of Hunley's announcement, just one day after City-County Councilor Vop Osili declared his candidacy for mayor in 2027, has intensified rumors of her potential entry into the mayoral race.

 Political observers note that Hunley has been viewed as a strong contender for the position, especially amid discussions of successors to current Mayor Joe Hogsett. Neither Hunley nor Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears—another rumored candidate—has filed for reelection to their current roles as of early January 2026.

 Reactions from Colleagues and the Political Landscape. Indiana Senate Democratic Leader Shelli Yoder praised Hunley's service, stating, "Sen. Andrea Hunley brings the voices of working families directly into the Statehouse, and she never lets us forget what Hoosiers are up against." Yoder thanked Hunley on behalf of the caucus, highlighting her dedication and impact. Hunley's departure marks her as the fourth state senator to announce they will not seek reelection in 2026, potentially shifting dynamics in the Indiana Senate where Democrats hold only 10 seats.

The open seat in District 46 could attract a competitive field in the Democratic primary, given its urban Indianapolis base. As speculation mounts, Hunley has remained focused on her current duties, telling reporters she is "looking forward to seeing who else is going to get into the race" and emphasizing the need for options to drive progress in Indianapolis.

 Her decision underscores a potential pivot toward city leadership, where her experience in education and advocacy could resonate with voters seeking fresh approaches to urban challenges.