O’Brien sworn in as new State Rep. for House District 78

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WFIE) - A Republican caucus voted to fill the seat of former State Representative Holli Sullivan Monday evening.

Sullivan is now the Indiana Secretary of State, taking over for Connie Lawson who recently stepped down.

Local Republican leaders announced that Tim O’Brien will serve out the remainder of Sullivan’s term, which expires in 2022.

O’Brien, Alphonso Vidal and Sean Selby submitted their applications.

O’Brien shares his excitement with 14 News.

“I’m incredibly excited. I think it’s time for some new leadership,” said O’Brien. “And some new ideas in Indianapolis and the statehouse.”

O’Brien will be a representative for District 78, which includes parts of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties.

“We’re moving into a session that has only a few short weeks left. I do have priorities. I want to ensure our infrastructure is taken care of. I know it’s an important issue today, but it’s going to be crucial to our future generations,” explained O’Brien. “We have to work to complete I-69, effectively the next step would be the bridge. Public safety is important to me.”

O’Brien took the oath of office Tuesday to serve as state representative for House District 78.

Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush administered the oath via Zoom with O’Brien in the House Chamber at the Statehouse in Indianapolis.

“It is an honor to serve my fellow Hoosiers, and I’m ready to represent House District 78,” O’Brien said. “My experience in business and connection to our community will drive my votes and conversations to prioritize the needs of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties. "

O’Brien moved to Evansville to attend the University of Southern Indiana, where he graduated in 2015 with a bachelor’s in economics. To pay for his education, O’Brien sold houses while attending classes.

At the age of 26, he became the youngest president of the Southwest Indiana Association of Realtors.

O’Brien says he plans on running for re-election.

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