FISHERS — In one of the most prominent surprises of Tuesday’s general election, Indiana Speaker of the House Todd Huston (R-Fishers) lost his reelection bid to Democratic challenger Lauren Cole in the race for House District 37.
Cole declared victory after final unofficial election-night tallies showed her holding approximately a three-point lead over the long-serving legislative leader.
End of a 14-Year Legislative Tenure
Huston was first elected to represent House District 37—which includes portions of Hamilton County stretching from Fishers north to Cicero and Arcadia—in 2012. He assumed the top leadership post in the chamber as Speaker of the Indiana House in March 2020, succeeding long-time Speaker Brian Bosma. Prior to his service in the General Assembly, Huston served on the Hamilton Southeastern School Board and the Fishers Planning Commission.
During his six years in the Speaker’s chair, Huston presided over major state legislative sessions, including statewide redistricting efforts and landmark policy debates.
Victory for First-Time Candidate
The election marks the first time Cole will hold public office. In a statement following the unofficial results, Cole expressed gratitude to District 37 voters, acknowledging Huston’s 14 years of legislative service to the area while thanking her campaign team and supporters for their backing throughout the race.
Huston’s defeat comes as part of broader shifts in the chamber, as the House will select a new Speaker ahead of the upcoming legislative session.
