Mark B. Messmer

In the 2024 House race for IN-8, Mark Messmer (R) won with 68.0% of the vote, defeating Erik Hurt (D) who received 29.4%. A third candidate also appeared on the ballot. Mark Messmer's 38.5-point advantage over the runner-up confirmed a comfortable win.

This was an open-seat race with no incumbent running — Larry D. Bucshon (R) previously held the seat. Open seats typically attract stronger candidates and heavier spending from both parties. The 2024 presidential election drove higher voter turnout, which can help or hurt down-ballot candidates depending on the top of the ticket. The wide margin suggests this district is firmly in the Republican column for the foreseeable future.