Truitt will run in District 26.

The Lafayette Journal and Courier is now officially reporting that Randy Truitt is running in House District 26. Considering Mitch Daniels won in that district in 2004 with 54% of the vote, we think this is a top pick-up opportunity. Mike Gentry, HRCC Executive Director, is calling it his #1 race.

West Lafayette City Council member Randy Truitt, R-At large, said he will announce his candidacy for the Indiana House District 26 seat at a news conference this afternoon.

Truitt doesn't have a formal opponent in the race yet. However, Democrat John Polles recently filed the necessary paperwork to form an exploratory committee for seeking the seat.

"I am leaning toward running and will have more to say at the end of this week," Polles said this morning.

Truitt should expect full support for the House Republican Campaign Committee.

Mike Gentry, executive director for the committee, said it is willing to commit personnel, money or whatever Truitt might need to win the race.

"This is the No. 1 priority seat" for the Republicans taking back control of the House, Gentry said.

In 2004, Gov. Mitch Daniels received 56 percent of the vote, Gentry said, suggesting Truitt has a good chance at winning the seat because voters here vote Republican.