Just two days after U.S. Senator Dan Coats announced he won't seek re-election next year, a contender has thrown his hat into the ring.
Eric Holcomb steered Governor Mitch Daniels' 2008 re-election campaign, led the Indiana Republican Party and most recently served as State Chief of Staff to Senator Dan Coats. But, Holcomb announced a personal first on Thursday – a run for office.
"And, that's why today, ladies and gentlemen, I'm proud, I'm excited to announced my candidacy for the United States Senate," Holcomb said at a press conference.
Despite never serving in elected office, Holcomb says he's not worried about making the jump all the way to a Senate run.
"I've been around very successful folks who've held office and I've helped them all along the way," Holcomb says. "I've learned a ton over the years and I want to take what I've learned and lead it in Washington, D.C."
Holcomb is the first to join what could be a crowded GOP primary field for Coats' seat. Other possible candidates include Congresswomen Susan Brooks and Jackie Walorski and Congressmen Todd Young, Todd Rokita, and Marlin Stutzman.