Beumer’s backbone will be missed

The decision is understandable, but the loss is undeniable.

Greg Beumer has reached the conclusion that one more session of the Indiana General Assembly is enough. He announced the other day that he won’t seek re-election in November 2018.

Those who have had the pleasure to know Greg and work with him were simultaneously disappointed by his decision and not surprised.

Even before his selection by District 33 Republicans to complete the term of Bill Davis in the Indiana House of Representatives, Beumer was known for qualities not usually associated with politicians: Thoughtfulness and humility.

The spotlight has never been his goal. Political power has never been something he sought.

Instead, a bit like someone out of a high school civics textbook, he was focused on making the legislative process work for the people of his district. 

And he meant all the people of his district, not just those who voted for him and shared his party’s banner and agenda.

That got him in hot water more than once during his years in office.

When then-governor Mike Pence pushed the ill-fated Religious Freedom Restoration Act, Greg Beumer refused to get in line.

Rather than play the role of loyal party foot soldier, he listened to his constituents. And he listened not only to conservative Republicans but also to moderate Republicans, to Democrats and to independents.

He came away convinced that the bill was a bad idea, and he cast his vote according to his conscience and his interpretation of his role as a representative of the people’s will.

That did not play well with those devoted to the GOP game plan.

But it was an accurate reflection of the opinions of those of us in District 33.

It was also the right vote, as proved by the events that played out after its passage. And it was a vote that history is likely to acknowledge for its thoughtfulness and independence and courage.

He will be missed. — J.R.