By Tom Davies
Indiana Capital Chronicle
For The Republic
INDIANAPOLIS –Longtime Rep. Ed Clere was kicked out of the Indiana House Republican caucus on the first day back in the Statehouse after he announced he would leave the party.
Clere criticized the direction of the Republican Party under President Donald Trump along with saying he would not seek reelection to his House seat this year. Instead, he will run as an independent candidate for New Albany mayor in 2027.
Monday’s removal of Clere from the private Republican caucus meetings was the first fallout for the nine-term representative for his action.
Republican House members typically hash out which legislation to advance and decide other political strategies during the behind-closed-door meetings held on most days the General Assembly is in session.
House Speaker Todd Huston issued only a brief statement regarding Clere.
“Following this weekend’s announcement that he’s left the Republican Party, Rep. Clere will no longer caucus with the House Republicans. No committee assignments will be impacted,” Huston said.
Clere told the Indiana Capital Chronicle that he had hoped to remain part of the Republican caucus as he completes his House term that runs until November.
Clere said Huston stopped him just before Monday’s caucus meeting and informed him of the expulsion.
— The Indiana Capital Chronicle covers state government and the state legislature. For more, visit indianacapitalchronicle.com.
“The speaker said nothing would change regarding my committee and other assignments, staff and bills,” Clere said. “I was surprised, and I am very disappointed, but I will continue to represent my district to the best of my ability, as I have for 18 years.”
