Max Engling
Republican
MEAbout
Political science and psychology graduate of IUPUI with a master's degree from the U.S. Naval War College. Worked for the U.S. House Committee on House Administration and House Republican leadership; at Beck's Hybrids; most recently a regional director and adviser to U.S. Sen. Jim Banks. Defeated incumbent Diego Morales and David Shelton at the June 20, 2026 Republican state convention (867–627–134 on the second ballot).
Positions on the issues
Maintain and enhance voter ID, citizenship verification, and absentee-ballot security.
Close party primaries to voters registered with other parties.
Screen business filings for shell-company and trucking fraud.
Simplify business filings and reduce regulatory burdens.
Create a public portal for reporting election concerns.
Supported the federal SAVE Act; did not join other candidates in pledging a top-to-bottom office audit.
Campaign funding
At least $420,000 raised in 2026 as of September 10, 2026, per IndyStar (includes a $60,000 contribution the campaign said it returned).
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