INDIANAPOLIS— Today, the Indiana Democratic Party thanks State Representative Rita Fleming for her years of dedicated service to southern Indiana and begins replacing her in office and on the ballot for the November election for District 71.
“Representative Fleming has been a successful and valuable member of our Indiana House Democratic Caucus and our Party,” said Indiana Democratic Party Chair Mike Schmuhl. “During her time in the legislature, she fought for women by increasing access to birth control. She used her experience as an OBGYN to pass legislation that improved conditions for pregnant inmates. She also worked tirelessly to help increase postpartum care for mothers on Medicaid. Her expertise on these issues will be missed, but we thank her for her commitment to fighting for these critical Democratic values.”
Representative Fleming has served District 71, which includes the cities and towns of Clarksville, Jeffersonville, and parts of New Albany, since 2018. She has endorsed Wendy Dant Chesser as the next representative for District 71.
“I made the difficult decision to retire because during the last few weeks away from the Statehouse, I have realized how essential I am to my family,” said Rep. Fleming. “I have 15 grandkids, and my family’s needs have changed over the years. I feel a responsibility to step down now because I know that moving forward, I cannot give my role as State Representative 100% of my efforts. While I have been able to accomplish several things for Hoosiers during my time representing District 71, moving forward, the constituents of this District deserve someone who can give them a full commitment to the work. I am confident that Wendy Dant Chesser is that person.”
Wendy Dant Chesser, a native of Jeffersonville, is currently the Chief Director of Corporate Strategy and External Affairs at the River Ridge Development Authority (RRDA). In that role, Wendy is responsible for ensuring the business environment within Indiana and River Ridge replaces the economic loss suffered when the US Army closed its operations at the site.
Before joining RRDA, Wendy worked as president and CEO of 1si, the area Chamber of Commerce and state-recognized local economic development organization for Clark, Floyd, and Scott counties since 2012. Wendy received her Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Indiana University Southeast in 1991 and was awarded the 2024 IU Southeast Distinguished Alumnus. She and her daughter, Joslyn, reside in Jeffersonville.
Per state law, a caucus of precinct committeepersons in District 71 will be called to fill the remainder of Rep. Fleming’s current term and to fill the resulting vacancy on the November ballot for a new, two-year term.
