The Indiana Senate shot down attempts to make the state's Superintendent of Public Instruction an appointed position on Monday in a 26-23 vote.
The legislation had been supported by all Republican leadership. Gov. Eric Holcomb led the charge for the switch from an elected superintendent to appointed one, House Speaker Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis) was the author of similar legislation in the House and Senate leader David Long (R-Fort Wayne) spoke in favor of the legislation during Senate.
The House is expected to vote on its own version of the bill later today.
For years, Indiana governors have called for the change.
However, Long attributed the birth of these sets of bills to the conflict between former Republican Gov. Mike Pence and former Democratic Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz.
"I do believe in the end, the state of Indiana and the schools are better off if we make sure that doesn’t happen again," Long said.
Supporters of the measure say it would separate education from politics.
Those who opposed Senate Bill 179 worried about the lack of qualifications required by the legislation, as well as taking away power from the people.
"As we add on another appointment, this will take away another opportunity for voters to participate in the process," said Sen. Eddie Melton, D-Merrillville.
Of those who voted against the bill, 17 were Republicans. Both Sen. Vaneta Becker, R-Evansville, and Sen. Jim Tomes, R-Wadesville, voted against the measure.