The Hoosier Way Leading the Indiana General Assembly.

• Author: Huhn, Taylor
• Position: LEADER PROFILES

For Mike Karickhoff, it was a natural evolution. For Matt Lehman, it was the answer to his search for a new challenge. For Todd Huston and Rodric Bray, it was a chance to guide a team. And Phil GiaQuinta believes he was born to it, thanks to his late father, state Rep. Ben GiaQuinta.

The leaders in the Indiana General Assembly have traveled different paths to their positions. But no matter how they got there, they approach the job with humility and a deep sense of responsibility.

"When I became the leader of the Senate Democratic Caucus, I became the first caucus leader of color ever in the history of the state of Indiana," Minority Leader Greg Taylor says. "It's an honor, and it also allows me to appoint people to committees and do things to diversify the makeup of the General Assembly."

Senate Majority Floor Leader Chris Garten says others often recognize the leaders among them.

"I don't know that good leaders necessarily pursue leadership roles or request them. I don't think they have to," he says. "I believe their actions are too loud to ignore, and I think we're blessed to live in a country where those actions are rewarded with opportunities."

As the General Assembly prepares to host the 2023 NCSL Legislative Summit in Indianapolis, the NCSL Leaders' Center sat down with the leaders of both chambers to learn more about them and their Legislature.

What traits make you a good leader?

* Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray: I'd say that my style is one of collaboration. I don't jump out there very often and say, "This is what we're going to do, and you all have to follow along." Communication is super important to me. You have to do that constantly, and make sure that you bring people into the conversation--even people who don't necessarily agree with where you're headed, because they can give you a valuable perspective. Plus, you may have an opportunity to get them to buy in a little bit to the project you're working on.

* Senate Majority Floor Leader Chris Garten: Everything goes back to that foundation of my Marine Corps service. For me, without a doubt, it's discipline. If you package discipline, self-awareness and sound judgment together, then I think you've got someone who absolutely is prepared to take any organization to the next level, whether that's in an elected capacity or in the private sector.

* Senate Minority Leader Greg Taylor: When you serve in the minority, you have to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. We all...