While Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch pledges to work for all of Indiana, Evansville has a new advocate in the statehouse.
Crouch, an Evansville native, was sworn in Monday morning in Indianapolis alongside new Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb.
Crouch has a wealth of government experience — a large portion of which comes from working in the Evansville community. She started as Vanderburgh county auditor and served as a county commissioner before moving on to state government. She represented the Evansville area as District 78 state representative before becoming state auditor.
As a representative, she coauthored a bill that funded Interstate 69, which she said has helped expand and connect Evansville. She plans to continue that focus in her new role.
“Evansville as a community is such a special place. We are so caring and collaborative and connected, and we work so well together,” Crouch said. “Now as our lieutenant governor ... I am looking forward to continuing to work with that leadership to connect Evansville even better to the rest of the state.”
As Holcomb’s lieutenant governor, Crouch wants to have an impact on Holcomb’s policy proposals. Last week, Holcomb presented an agenda for the legislative session that included growing the economy, investing in roads and dealing with the opioid epidemic.
Because of Crouch’s experience in the Indiana Assembly, she said Holcomb asked her to spearhead the governor’s efforts in the statehouse.
Crouch said feels passionately about promoting legislation to help all Hoosiers, including those with addictions and disabilities.
“ ... If we are sincere in our commitment to continue a legacy of excellence, we must elevate all Hoosiers to the next level -- including those with disabilities, those with mental health challenges and those fighting to overcome drug and alcohol addiction,” Crouch said in her speech Monday. “In my everyday role as lieutenant governor, it is my goal to ensure that we never forget those who need a helping hand.”
Crouch said she will continue to live in Evansville on the weekends.
“It’s the place I grew up. It’s where my family is. It’s where my heart is, Crouch said. “I am proud to be an Evansvillian and will always be. “
And as she continues to make the drive home, she’ll continue pushing for the quick completion of Interstate 69.