Mark Messmer

Messmer supported the state mandated purchase of syngas through coal gasification technology.^[3] Developers of Leucadia National proposed a $2.6 billion syngas plant in Rockport, Indiana. Under the terms of the deal endorsed by Messmer, the state of Indiana would have bought syngas under a 30-year contract and then mandate that utilities within the state pass on any losses from the transaction on to Hoosier customers.^[4] Gas from the plant would make up about 17 percent of the state's supply. The deal received criticism due to government intrusion in the energy markets, and for forcing consumers to sign up for risky long-term gas purchases at prices substantially higher than market prices.^[5][6] Questions were also raised due to Leucadia National hiring Mark Lubbers to promote the deal. Lubbers is a former aide and close friend of former governor Mitch Daniels.^[7] The project was ultimately panned by the state legislature in 2013.^[8]

In 2022, Messmer sponsored a bill that bans the foreign ownership of agricultural land in Indiana.^[9][10] He also sponsored bills in 2022 to provide in-state tuition and drivers licenses to illegal immigrants.^[11]

In February 2024, Messmer announced his candidacy for Indiana's 8th congressional district in the 2024 election.^[12] He defeated former U.S. Representative John Hostettler in the primary by a wide margin of roughly 20 points. He resigned from the Indiana Senate in September 2024 in order to focus on his campaign.^[13] Messmer would later go on to defeat his Democratic opponent, Erik Hurt.^[14]

Messmer is a Catholic.^[16]