Local Lawmaker Announces Reelection Bid

Senator Jim Arnold
Senator Jim Arnold

A state lawmaker whose district includes most of LaPorte and part of Starke Counties running for reelection. Sen. Jim Arnold, D-LaPorte has formally announced his intention to run for a third term. The former LaPorte County Sheriff has worked across party lines in the Republican-controlled General Assembly to achieve legislative victories for his constituents.

Arnold was recently appointed to Gov. Mike Pence’s Task Force on Drug Enforcement Treatment and Enforcement. He’s also the leading Democrat on the Senate Committee on Roads and Transportation and the Senate Committee on Veteran and Military Affairs.

Arnold says in a statement his priorities include finding more money for roads and bridges and refocusing support for public education.

He’s an Air Force and Army Reserves veteran and has not missed a session day since he was elected in 2008. Prior to his election Arnold was a member of LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office for 32 years, serving as a Deputy, Sergeant, Captain and Chief Deputy before being elected Sheriff in 1999. He resides in LaPorte with his wife of 24 years, Lauren.

Arnold represents Senate District 8. It includes the majority of LaPorte County, including the city of LaPorte and the eastern portion of Michigan City, the western portion of St. Joseph County and Davis, Oregon, Washington, Center and Jackson Townships in Starke County.