SOUTH BEND — First-time candidate and physician Brian Schmutzler beat Indiana Sen. Linda Rogers on Tuesday, May 5, in the Republican race for the District 11 Senate seat.
Schmutzler gave his thanks to Jesus and President Donald Trump, who had endorsed Schmutzler via a Truth Social post.
“He’s been awesome, his office has been awesome, and I thank him not only because he didn’t have to do this but that he cared enough about this race to say, ‘Hey, I’m going to support this guy I’ve never met from nowhere Indiana,'” Schmutzler said. “I really appreciate his support and would love to have his support in the general.
“I’m going to do everything I can to support his America First agenda.”
Rogers expressed gratitude for her time as an Indiana senator representing District 11 as well as for her supporters and family. Despite speaking sorrowfully, she offered congratulations to Schmutzler. She declined to speak to The Tribune after she announced her loss.
Schmutzler will face Democrat Gabrianna Gratzol in the Tuesday, Nov. 3, general election.
In unofficial results, Schmutzler beat Rogers by 683 votes in St. Joseph County, 3,310 to 2,627. The Elkhart County election results have yet to be released.
Schmutzler is the chief anesthesiologist and medical director of the operating room at Unity Physicians Hospital in Mishawaka, according to his website.
To close off the night, Schmutzler led his supporters through a prayer. He thanked Jesus for the opportunity to build his campaign on faith and prays that Jesus will will guide him through the general election. Schmutzler closed the prayer with a thanks to his lord.
Email Tribune staff writer Juliane Balog at jbalog@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Indiana Senator Linda Rogers loses primary to Trump-endorsed candidate
Reporting by Juliane Balog , South Bend Tribune / South Bend Tribune
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
