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|term_end = January 3, 2019
|term_end = January 3, 2019
|leader = [[John Boehner]]<br>[[Paul Ryan (politician)|Paul Ryan]]
|leader = [[John Boehner]]<br>[[Paul Ryan (politician)|Paul Ryan]]
|predecessor = [[James Lankford]]<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://republicanpolicy.house.gov/about |title = About|date = December 19, 2013}}</ref>
|predecessor = [[James Lankford]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://republicanpolicy.house.gov/about |title = About|date = December 19, 2013}}</ref>
|successor = [[Gary Palmer (politician)|Gary Palmer]]
|successor = [[Gary Palmer (politician)|Gary Palmer]]
|state1 = [[Indiana]]
|state1 = [[Indiana]]
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'''Allen Lucas Messer''' (born February 27, 1969) is an American politician and lobbyist who represented [[Indiana's 6th congressional district]] in the [[United States House of Representatives]] from 2013 to 2019. He is a member of the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]].
'''Allen Lucas Messer''' (born February 27, 1969) is an American politician and lobbyist who represented [[Indiana's 6th congressional district]] in the [[United States House of Representatives]] from 2013 to 2019. He is a member of the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]].


Born in [[Evansville, Indiana]], Messer is a graduate of [[Wabash College]] and [[Vanderbilt University Law School]]. After an unsuccessful run for the U.S. House in 2000, Messer served as the first executive director of the [[Indiana Republican Party]] from 2001 to 2005. Messer was appointed to serve in the [[Indiana House of Representatives]] in 2003, after State Representative [[W. Roland Stine]] was killed in a car accident. He represented Indiana's 57th District from 2003 to 2006, when he opted not to run for reelection and instead joined Ice Miller LLP's lobbying division. From 2006 to 2012, Messer was a registered lobbyist. He ran for the U.S. House again in 2010, but was unsuccessful in his primary challenge to Republican [[Dan Burton]]. Congressman Mike Pence (Indiana 6th) decided in 2012 to run for Indiana Governor, and Messer was elected to replace him, defeating [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democratic]] nominee Brad Bookout.
Born in [[Evansville, Indiana]], Messer is a graduate of [[Wabash College]] and [[Vanderbilt University Law School]]. After an unsuccessful run for the U.S. House in 2000, Messer served as the first executive director of the [[Indiana Republican Party]] from 2001 to 2005. Messer was appointed to serve in the [[Indiana House of Representatives]] in 2003, after State Representative [[W. Roland Stine]] was killed in a car accident. He represented Indiana's 57th District from 2003 to 2006, when he opted not to run for reelection and instead joined Ice Miller LLP's lobbying division. From 2006 to 2012, Messer was a registered lobbyist. He ran for the U.S. House again in 2010, but was unsuccessful in his primary challenge to Republican [[Dan Burton]]. When [[Mike Pence]] decided in 2012 to run for [[Governor of Indiana]], Messer was elected to replace him, defeating [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democratic]] nominee Brad Bookout.


On July 26, 2017, Messer announced that he would run for the U.S. Senate in [[2018 United States Senate election in Indiana|2018]].<ref>{{cite news|author=By $${element.Contributor} |url=http://www.rollcall.com/news/politics/indiana-rep-luke-messer-running-for-senate |title=Indiana Rep. Luke Messer Running for Senate |publisher=Rollcall.com |date=2017-07-26 |accessdate=2018-04-17|newspaper=Roll Call }}</ref> He was unsuccessful in the May 8 primary election, losing to [[Mike Braun]].
On July 26, 2017, Messer announced that he would run for the U.S. Senate in [[2018 United States Senate election in Indiana|2018]].<ref>{{cite news|author=By $${element.Contributor} |url=http://www.rollcall.com/news/politics/indiana-rep-luke-messer-running-for-senate |title=Indiana Rep. Luke Messer Running for Senate |publisher=Rollcall.com |date=2017-07-26 |access-date=2018-04-17|newspaper=Roll Call }}</ref> He was unsuccessful in the May 8 primary election, losing to [[Mike Braun]].


==Early life and career==
==Early life and career==
Messer graduated from [[Greensburg Community High School]] in 1987.<ref>https://www.greensburgdailynews.com/news/local_news/congressman-messer-tells-football-players-about-sport-s-life-lessons/article_d4747ad6-7f4b-5a1b-aa05-54ec96647b51.html</ref><ref name="in.gov">{{cite web |url=http://www.in.gov/legislative/house_republicans/newsroom/luke.html | title =Luke Messer Sworn in Today as State Representative for House District 57 |publisher =in.gov | date =May 28, 2003 | accessdate =January 17, 2013}}</ref> Messer attended [[Wabash College]] where he was a member of the [[Phi Delta Theta]] fraternity and majored in speech. He graduated in 1991.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Torrez|first1=Jonathan|title=The Wabash College Bachelor |url=http://www.wabash.edu/bachelor/issues/2006f/fullpaper.pdf |website=wabash.edu |publisher=Wabash College Board of Publications|accessdate=December 9, 2014}}</ref> He received a [[Juris Doctor]] from [[Vanderbilt University Law School]] in 1994.<ref name="nationaljournal.com">{{cite web|url= http://www.nationaljournal.com/congress-legacy/indiana-6th-house-district-20121101
Messer graduated from [[Greensburg Community High School]] in 1987.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.greensburgdailynews.com/news/local_news/congressman-messer-tells-football-players-about-sport-s-life-lessons/article_d4747ad6-7f4b-5a1b-aa05-54ec96647b51.html|title = Congressman Messer tells football players about sport's life lessons}}</ref><ref name="in.gov">{{cite web |url=http://www.in.gov/legislative/house_republicans/newsroom/luke.html | title =Luke Messer Sworn in Today as State Representative for House District 57 |publisher =in.gov | date =May 28, 2003 | access-date =January 17, 2013}}</ref> Messer attended [[Wabash College]] where he was a member of the [[Phi Delta Theta]] fraternity and majored in speech. He graduated in 1991.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Torrez|first1=Jonathan|title=The Wabash College Bachelor |url=http://www.wabash.edu/bachelor/issues/2006f/fullpaper.pdf |website=wabash.edu |publisher=Wabash College Board of Publications|access-date=December 9, 2014}}</ref> He received a [[Juris Doctor]] from [[Vanderbilt University Law School]] in 1994.<ref name="nationaljournal.com">{{cite web|url= http://www.nationaljournal.com/congress-legacy/indiana-6th-house-district-20121101
|title=Indiana's 6th House District Luke Messer bio; The National Journal |publisher=nationaljournal.com |accessdate=December 9, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/indystar/access/1913977181.html?FMT=CITE&FMTS=CITE:FT&type=current&date=Oct+14%2C+1999&author=&pub=Indianapolis+Star&desc=Ex-McIntosh+aide+is+seeking+GOP+nod+to+fill+seat&pqatl=google |title=Ex-McIntosh aide is seeking GOP nod to fill seat |work=The Indianapolis Star |date=October 14, 1999 |accessdate=September 15, 2012}} {{subscription required}}</ref> Shortly after graduating from Vanderbilt, he served as an Associate Counsel at [[Koch Industries]] from 1995 to 1996.<ref>{{cite web | url =http://www.solitical.com/official/details/33997 | title =LUKE MESSER INFORMATION | publisher =solitical.com | accessdate =January 17, 2013 | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20131022215556/http://www.solitical.com/official/details/33997 | archive-date =October 22, 2013 | url-status =dead }}</ref>
|title=Indiana's 6th House District Luke Messer bio; The National Journal |work=nationaljournal.com |access-date=December 9, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/indystar/access/1913977181.html?FMT=CITE&FMTS=CITE:FT&type=current&date=Oct+14%2C+1999&author=&pub=Indianapolis+Star&desc=Ex-McIntosh+aide+is+seeking+GOP+nod+to+fill+seat&pqatl=google |title=Ex-McIntosh aide is seeking GOP nod to fill seat |work=The Indianapolis Star |date=October 14, 1999 |access-date=September 15, 2012}} {{subscription required}}</ref> Shortly after graduating from Vanderbilt, he served as an Associate Counsel at [[Koch Industries]] from 1995 to 1996.<ref>{{cite web | url =http://www.solitical.com/official/details/33997 | title =LUKE MESSER INFORMATION | publisher =solitical.com | access-date =January 17, 2013 | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20131022215556/http://www.solitical.com/official/details/33997 | archive-date =October 22, 2013 | url-status =dead }}</ref>


Messer started his political career in 1997 as the press secretary for Tennessee Representative [[Ed Bryant]]. He was the legal counsel on the [[United States House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform|House Subcommittee for Government Reform]] for Indiana Representatives [[David M. McIntosh|David McIntosh]] and [[Dan Burton]] from 1998 to 1999, and the legal counsel to U.S. Representative [[Jimmy Duncan (U.S. politician)|Jim Duncan]] later in 1999.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://votesmart.org/candidate/biography/33997/luke-messer#.UPjqSyfol5I | title =REPRESENTATIVE LUKE MESSER'S BIOGRAPHY |publisher =votesmart.org | accessdate =January 17, 2013}}</ref> In 1998, he was the campaign manager for [[Virginia Murphy Blankenbaker]]'s unsuccessful congressional campaign.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gwu.edu/~action/2004/bush/bushorgin.html | title =President George W. Bush-Campaign Organization, Indiana | publisher =georgewashingtonuniversity.edu | accessdate =January 17, 2013}}</ref> In 1999, Messer returned to Indiana and practiced law at the [[Barnes & Thornburg]] law firm in [[Indianapolis]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.wabash.edu/alumni/news.cfm?news_ID=1142 | title =Wabash Alumnus Elected to Indiana General Assembly | publisher =wabash.edu | date =May 22, 2003 | accessdate =January 17, 2013}}</ref>
Messer started his political career in 1997 as the press secretary for Tennessee Representative [[Ed Bryant]]. He was the legal counsel on the [[United States House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform|House Subcommittee for Government Reform]] for Indiana Representatives [[David M. McIntosh|David McIntosh]] and [[Dan Burton]] from 1998 to 1999, and the legal counsel to U.S. Representative [[Jimmy Duncan (U.S. politician)|Jim Duncan]] later in 1999.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://votesmart.org/candidate/biography/33997/luke-messer#.UPjqSyfol5I | title =REPRESENTATIVE LUKE MESSER'S BIOGRAPHY |publisher =votesmart.org | access-date =January 17, 2013}}</ref> In 1998, he was the campaign manager for [[Virginia Murphy Blankenbaker]]'s unsuccessful congressional campaign.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gwu.edu/~action/2004/bush/bushorgin.html | title =President George W. Bush-Campaign Organization, Indiana | publisher =georgewashingtonuniversity.edu | access-date =January 17, 2013}}</ref> In 1999, Messer returned to Indiana and practiced law at the [[Barnes & Thornburg]] law firm in [[Indianapolis]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.wabash.edu/alumni/news.cfm?news_ID=1142 | title =Wabash Alumnus Elected to Indiana General Assembly | publisher =wabash.edu | date =May 22, 2003 | access-date =January 17, 2013}}</ref>


In 2000, Messer ran for the [[United States House of Representatives]] in [[Indiana's 2nd congressional district]], where [[incumbent]] [[David M. McIntosh]] was retiring to run for [[governor of Indiana]] in the [[2000 Indiana gubernatorial election|2000 election]]. Messer received the endorsement of ''[[The Indianapolis Star]]''.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/indystar/access/1912924381.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Apr+17%2C+2000&author=&pub=Indianapolis+Star&desc=Candidate+Messer's+good+ideas+for+positive+change&pqatl=google |title=Candidate Messer's good ideas for positive change |work=The Indianapolis Star|date=April 17, 2000 |accessdate=September 15, 2012}} {{subscription required}}</ref> He received 21 percent of the vote in the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]]'s [[primary election]], finishing behind [[Mike Pence]], who won with 44 percent of the vote, and [[Jeff Linder (politician)|Jeff Linder]], who received 24 percent of the vote.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/252929880/|title=Pence wraps up GOP nomination for U.S. 2nd Congressional District|first=Beth|last=Musgrave|work=[[Palladium-Item]]|location=Richmond, Indiana|via=Newspapers.com|page=A1|date=May 3, 2000|accessdate=April 20, 2020}} {{subscription required}}</ref> In 2001, Messer was chosen as the executive director of the [[Indiana Republican Party]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/148661258/ |title=Director named|page=2 |work=The Republic |via=Newspapers.com |date=2001-08-23 |accessdate=2018-04-17}} {{subscription required}}</ref>
In 2000, Messer ran for the [[United States House of Representatives]] in [[Indiana's 2nd congressional district]], where [[incumbent]] [[David M. McIntosh]] was retiring to run for [[governor of Indiana]] in the [[2000 Indiana gubernatorial election|2000 election]]. Messer received the endorsement of ''[[The Indianapolis Star]]''.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/indystar/access/1912924381.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Apr+17%2C+2000&author=&pub=Indianapolis+Star&desc=Candidate+Messer's+good+ideas+for+positive+change&pqatl=google |title=Candidate Messer's good ideas for positive change |work=The Indianapolis Star|date=April 17, 2000 |access-date=September 15, 2012}} {{subscription required}}</ref> He received 21 percent of the vote in the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]]'s [[primary election]], finishing behind conservative talk show host [[Mike Pence]], who won with 44 percent of the vote, and [[Jeff Linder (politician)|Jeff Linder]], who received 24 percent of the vote.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/252929880/|title=Pence wraps up GOP nomination for U.S. 2nd Congressional District|first=Beth|last=Musgrave|work=[[Palladium-Item]]|location=Richmond, Indiana|via=Newspapers.com|page=A1|date=May 3, 2000|access-date=April 20, 2020}} {{subscription required}}</ref> In 2001, Messer was chosen as the executive director of the [[Indiana Republican Party]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/148661258/ |title=Director named|page=2 |work=The Republic |via=Newspapers.com |date=2001-08-23 |access-date=2018-04-17}} {{subscription required}}</ref>


==Indiana House of Representatives==
==Indiana House of Representatives==
On May 23, 2003, Messer was selected to succeed [[W. Roland Stine]], who died in a traffic collision, in the [[Indiana House of Representatives]] for the 57th district.<ref>https://www.newspapers.com/image/127303752/?terms=luke%2Bmesser%2Broland%2Bstine</ref> From 2003 to 2006, Messer represented District 57 in the [[Indiana House of Representatives]], which contained parts of [[Shelby County, Indiana|Shelby County]] and [[Bartholomew County]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=IBNP&p_multi=IBJB&p_theme=ibnp&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=11206C3BC1F461A8&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |title=IBJ Newsbank Archives |publisher=Nl.newsbank.com |date=February 7, 2005 |accessdate=September 14, 2012}} {{subscription required}}</ref> During the 2005-06 legislative session, Messer was Assistant Majority Floor Leader.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.state.in.us/legislative/house_republicans/newsroom/commchairs.html | title =INDIANA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COMMITTEE CHAIRS // 2005-2006 |publisher =state.in.us | accessdate =January 17, 2013}}</ref> His legislation aimed at curbing high school dropout rates received national attention after Shelbyville High School became a symbol of a national dropout crisis.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1181646,00.html
On May 23, 2003, Messer was selected to succeed [[W. Roland Stine]], who died in a traffic collision, in the [[Indiana House of Representatives]] for the 57th district.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/127303752/?terms=luke%2Bmesser%2Broland%2Bstine |title=23 May 2003, Page 26 - The Indianapolis Star at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2003-05-23 |accessdate=2022-06-05}}</ref> From 2003 to 2006, Messer represented District 57 in the [[Indiana House of Representatives]], which contained parts of [[Shelby County, Indiana|Shelby County]] and [[Bartholomew County]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=IBNP&p_multi=IBJB&p_theme=ibnp&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=11206C3BC1F461A8&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |title=IBJ Newsbank Archives |publisher=Nl.newsbank.com |date=February 7, 2005 |access-date=September 14, 2012}} {{subscription required}}</ref> During the 2005-06 legislative session, Messer was Assistant Majority Floor Leader.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.state.in.us/legislative/house_republicans/newsroom/commchairs.html | title =INDIANA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COMMITTEE CHAIRS // 2005-2006 |publisher =state.in.us | access-date =January 17, 2013}}</ref> His legislation aimed at curbing high school dropout rates received national attention after Shelbyville High School became a symbol of a national dropout crisis.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1181646,00.html
|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061106105318/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1181646,00.html
|title=Drop Out Nation; Time Magazine |publisher=www.time.com |date=April 9, 2006 |accessdate=December 9, 2012 |first=Nathan |last=Thornburgh/Shelbyville}}</ref> He did not run for reelection as State Representative in 2006, and was succeeded by [[Sean Eberhart]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/indystar/access/1754670871.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Oct+31%2C+2006&author=&pub=Indianapolis+Star&desc=Election+2006%3A+Indiana+House&pqatl=google |title=Election 2006: Indiana House |work=Indianapolis Star |date=October 31, 2006 |accessdate=September 15, 2012}} {{subscription required}}</ref>
|url-status= dead
|archive-date= November 6, 2006
|title=Drop Out Nation; Time Magazine |publisher=www.time.com |date=April 9, 2006 |access-date=December 9, 2012 |first=Nathan |last=Thornburgh/Shelbyville}}</ref> He did not run for reelection as State Representative in 2006, and was succeeded by [[Sean Eberhart]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/indystar/access/1754670871.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Oct+31%2C+2006&author=&pub=Indianapolis+Star&desc=Election+2006%3A+Indiana+House&pqatl=google |title=Election 2006: Indiana House |work=Indianapolis Star |date=October 31, 2006 |access-date=September 15, 2012}} {{subscription required}}</ref>


== Lobbying work ==
== Lobbying work ==
Messer was a registered lobbyist from 2006 to 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://secure.in.gov/apps/ilrc/registration/browse/lobbyistInfo?lobbyistId=6268&searchText=messer&searchType=lobbyistName&type=&id=6268|title=Lobbyist Browsing|website=secure.in.gov|access-date=July 2, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lawmaker-to-work-for-firm-linked-to-toll-road-lease/article_dbf6f052-27b7-5acb-a232-7c774b324101.html|title=Lawmaker to work for firm linked to Toll Road lease |last=GUINANE |first=PATRICK|work=nwitimes.com|access-date=July 2, 2017|language=en}}</ref>
Messer was a registered lobbyist from 2006 to 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://secure.in.gov/apps/ilrc/registration/browse/lobbyistInfo?lobbyistId=6268&searchText=messer&searchType=lobbyistName&type=&id=6268|title=Lobbyist Browsing|website=secure.in.gov|access-date=July 2, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lawmaker-to-work-for-firm-linked-to-toll-road-lease/article_dbf6f052-27b7-5acb-a232-7c774b324101.html|title=Lawmaker to work for firm linked to Toll Road lease |last=GUINANE |first=PATRICK|work=nwitimes.com|access-date=July 2, 2017|language=en}}</ref>


In 2006, Messer joined Ice Miller LLP's lobbying division as a partner of their public affairs group.<ref>{{cite web |author=InsideIndianaBusiness.com Report |url=http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/newsitem.asp?ID=17596 |title=State Representative Luke Messer Joins Ice Miller – Newsroom – Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick |publisher=Insideindianabusiness.com |accessdate=September 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021013503/http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/newsitem.asp?ID=17596# |archive-date=October 21, 2013 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bondbuyer.com/news/indiana-lawmaker-lobbyist|title=INDIANA: Lawmaker-Lobbyist|work=Bond Buyer|access-date=June 21, 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref name="GUINANEpguinane@nwitimes.com317.637.9078">{{Cite news|url=http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lawmaker-to-work-for-firm-linked-to-toll-road-lease/article_dbf6f052-27b7-5acb-a232-7c774b324101.html|title=Lawmaker to work for firm linked to Toll Road lease |last=GUINANE |first=PATRICK |work=nwitimes.com|access-date=June 21, 2017|language=en}}</ref> His decision to join Ice Miller came a month after voting in favor of Indiana leasing the Indiana Toll Road to Cintra-Macquarie, an international consortium, for "75 years at a cost of $3.85 billion." Ice Miller, Indiana's largest law firm, represented Cintra-Macquarie in the deal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.americanregistry.com/recognition/25-largest-indianapolis-area-law-firms/20210|title=25 Largest Indianapolis-Area Law Firms|date=March 2005|website=AmericanRegistry.com}}</ref> Messer said he "did not know they represented anyone in connection with the Toll Road."<ref name="GUINANEpguinane@nwitimes.com317.637.9078"/>
In 2006, Messer joined Ice Miller LLP's lobbying division as a partner of their public affairs group.<ref>{{cite web |author=InsideIndianaBusiness.com Report |url=http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/newsitem.asp?ID=17596 |title=State Representative Luke Messer Joins Ice Miller – Newsroom – Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick |publisher=Insideindianabusiness.com |access-date=September 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021013503/http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/newsitem.asp?ID=17596 |archive-date=October 21, 2013 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bondbuyer.com/news/indiana-lawmaker-lobbyist|title=INDIANA: Lawmaker-Lobbyist|work=Bond Buyer|access-date=June 21, 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref name="GUINANEpguinane@nwitimes.com317.637.9078">{{Cite news|url=http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lawmaker-to-work-for-firm-linked-to-toll-road-lease/article_dbf6f052-27b7-5acb-a232-7c774b324101.html|title=Lawmaker to work for firm linked to Toll Road lease |last=GUINANE |first=PATRICK |work=nwitimes.com|access-date=June 21, 2017|language=en}}</ref> His decision to join Ice Miller came a month after voting in favor of Indiana leasing the Indiana Toll Road to Cintra-Macquarie, an international consortium, for "75 years at a cost of $3.85 billion." Ice Miller, Indiana's largest law firm, represented Cintra-Macquarie in the deal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.americanregistry.com/recognition/25-largest-indianapolis-area-law-firms/20210|title=25 Largest Indianapolis-Area Law Firms|date=March 2005|website=AmericanRegistry.com}}</ref> Messer said he "did not know they represented anyone in connection with the Toll Road."<ref name="GUINANEpguinane@nwitimes.com317.637.9078"/>


Messer served as the Indiana co-chair of [[John McCain]]'s [[John McCain 2008 presidential campaign|2008 presidential campaign]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://seattletimes.com/html/politics/2008199303_apflippingindiana.html|title=Politics &#124; Obama out to flip Indiana to Dems &#124; Seattle Times Newspaper|last=Davies|first=Tom|date=September 24, 2008|publisher=Seattletimes.com|accessdate=September 15, 2012}}</ref> In 2010, Messer ran for the House of Representatives in [[Indiana's 5th congressional district]]. He challenged [[Dan Burton]], the incumbent representative, in the [[United States House of Representatives elections in Indiana, 2010#District 5|Republican primary]]. Burton narrowly defeated Messer.<ref name="is2">{{cite web |url=http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011107090316|title=Candidates line up for Pence's open seat in Congress|last=Schneider|first=Mary Beth |date=July 9, 2011|accessdate=July 11, 2011|work=[[The Indianapolis Star]]}}</ref> Messer then became president and CEO of School Choice Indiana, a lobbying group that supported Indiana's private [[school voucher]] law.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Messer-defeats-Bookout-wins-Pence-s-6th-seat-4014932.php|title=Messer defeats Bookout, wins Pence's 6th seat|date=November 6, 2012|agency=Associated Press|newspaper=San Francisco Chronicle |accessdate=November 7, 2012}}</ref>
Messer served as the Indiana co-chair of [[John McCain]]'s [[John McCain 2008 presidential campaign|2008 presidential campaign]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://seattletimes.com/html/politics/2008199303_apflippingindiana.html|title=Politics &#124; Obama out to flip Indiana to Dems &#124; Seattle Times Newspaper|last=Davies|first=Tom|date=September 24, 2008|publisher=Seattletimes.com|access-date=September 15, 2012}}</ref> In 2010, Messer ran for the House of Representatives in [[Indiana's 5th congressional district]]. He challenged [[Dan Burton]], the incumbent representative, in the [[United States House of Representatives elections in Indiana, 2010#District 5|Republican primary]]. Burton narrowly defeated Messer.<ref name="is2">{{cite web |url=http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011107090316|title=Candidates line up for Pence's open seat in Congress|last=Schneider|first=Mary Beth |date=July 9, 2011|access-date=July 11, 2011|work=[[The Indianapolis Star]]}}</ref> Messer then became president and CEO of School Choice Indiana, a lobbying group that supported Indiana's private [[school voucher]] law.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Messer-defeats-Bookout-wins-Pence-s-6th-seat-4014932.php|title=Messer defeats Bookout, wins Pence's 6th seat|date=November 6, 2012|agency=Associated Press|newspaper=San Francisco Chronicle |access-date=November 7, 2012}}</ref>


Since being elected to Congress in 2012, Ice Miller LLP has been Messer's top source of campaign contributions, having given him $82,238.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.opensecrets.org/politicians/contrib.php?cycle=Career&cid=N00012546&type=I|title=Rep. Luke Messer: Campaign Finance/Money - Top Donors - Representative Career {{!}} OpenSecrets|website=www.opensecrets.org|language=en|access-date=June 28, 2017}}</ref>
Since being elected to Congress in 2012, Ice Miller LLP has been Messer's top source of campaign contributions, having given him $82,238.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.opensecrets.org/politicians/contrib.php?cycle=Career&cid=N00012546&type=I|title=Rep. Luke Messer: Campaign Finance/Money - Top Donors - Representative Career {{!}} OpenSecrets|website=www.opensecrets.org|language=en|access-date=June 28, 2017}}</ref>
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===Elections===
===Elections===
In May 2011, [[Mike Pence]] announced his intention to run for [[Governor of Indiana]]. Messer subsequently declared his candidacy for the Republican nomination to represent the 6th District. His home in Shelbyville had been shifted from the 5th District to the 6th in redistricting.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.latimes.com/topic/wxin-luke-messer-former-state-lawmaker-announces-run-for-congress-20110524,0,1928635.story?track=rss-topicgallery |title=Former state lawmaker announces run for Congress |newspaper=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=May 21, 2011 |accessdate=January 17, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131221122145/http://www.latimes.com/topic/wxin-luke-messer-former-state-lawmaker-announces-run-for-congress-20110524%2C0%2C1928635.story?track=rss-topicgallery |archive-date=December 21, 2013 }}</ref> On May 8, 2012, Messer defeated a crowded field of Republican candidates seeking the party's nomination, including [[Columbus, Indiana|Columbus]] real estate investor Travis Hankins, winning with 71% of the vote.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indystar.com/article/20120508/NEWS0502/120508046 | title =Messer conquers crowded Republican field in 6th District | publisher =indystar.com |date =May 8, 2012 | accessdate =January 17, 2013}}</ref> He faced [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democrat]] Brad Bookout, a [[Delaware County, Indiana|Delaware County]] councilman, in the general election.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20120509/ELECTIONS/120509003/Bookout-face-young-gun-Messer-race-U-S-Congress-seat |title=Bookout to face 'young gun' Messer in race for U.S. Congress seat &#124; The Star Press |publisher=thestarpress.com |accessdate=June 3, 2012 |archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20120607020010/http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20120509/ELECTIONS/120509003/Bookout-face-young-gun-Messer-race-U-S-Congress-seat# |archive-date=June 7, 2012 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20120508/ELECTIONS/120508018/Frazier-losing-Bookout-winning-Delaware-County-6th-District |title=Messer, Bookout win vote in Delaware County for U.S. Congress seat &#124; The Star Press |publisher=thestarpress.com |accessdate=June 3, 2012 }}{{Dead link|date=November 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> On November 6, 2012, Messer defeated Bookout with roughly 59% of the vote.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.therepublic.com/view/local_story/Messer-puts-focus-on-jobs-budg_1352270428|title=Messer puts focus on jobs, budget work|last=Johannesen|first=Kirk|date=November 7, 2012|newspaper=The Republic|access-date=November 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518080331/http://www.therepublic.com/view/local_story/Messer-puts-focus-on-jobs-budg_1352270428#|archive-date=May 18, 2015|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> After the election, Messer moved to the [[Washington metropolitan area]].<ref name=goes>{{cite web|url=http://madisoncourier.com/Content/News/News/Article/Mr-Messer-goes-to-Washington-/178/961/74245|title=Mr. Messer goes to Washington|newspaper=Madison Courier|accessdate=July 5, 2017}}</ref>
In May 2011, [[Mike Pence]] announced his intention to run for [[Governor of Indiana]]. Messer subsequently declared his candidacy for the Republican nomination in the district, which had been renumbered as the 6th District after the 2000 census. His home in Shelbyville had been drawn back into the district after the 2010 census after being drawn into the neighboring 5th after the 2000 census.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.latimes.com/topic/wxin-luke-messer-former-state-lawmaker-announces-run-for-congress-20110524,0,1928635.story?track=rss-topicgallery |title=Former state lawmaker announces run for Congress |newspaper=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=May 21, 2011 |access-date=January 17, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131221122145/http://www.latimes.com/topic/wxin-luke-messer-former-state-lawmaker-announces-run-for-congress-20110524%2C0%2C1928635.story?track=rss-topicgallery |archive-date=December 21, 2013 }}</ref> On May 8, 2012, Messer defeated a crowded field of Republican candidates seeking the party's nomination, including [[Columbus, Indiana|Columbus]] real estate investor Travis Hankins, winning with 71% of the vote.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indystar.com/article/20120508/NEWS0502/120508046 | title =Messer conquers crowded Republican field in 6th District | publisher =indystar.com |date =May 8, 2012 | access-date =January 17, 2013}}</ref> He faced [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democrat]] Brad Bookout, a [[Delaware County, Indiana|Delaware County]] councilman, in the general election.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20120509/ELECTIONS/120509003/Bookout-face-young-gun-Messer-race-U-S-Congress-seat |title=Bookout to face 'young gun' Messer in race for U.S. Congress seat &#124; The Star Press |publisher=thestarpress.com |access-date=June 3, 2012 |archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20120607020010/http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20120509/ELECTIONS/120509003/Bookout-face-young-gun-Messer-race-U-S-Congress-seat |archive-date=June 7, 2012 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20120508/ELECTIONS/120508018/Frazier-losing-Bookout-winning-Delaware-County-6th-District |title=Messer, Bookout win vote in Delaware County for U.S. Congress seat &#124; The Star Press |publisher=thestarpress.com |access-date=June 3, 2012 }}{{Dead link|date=November 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> On November 6, 2012, Messer defeated Bookout with roughly 59% of the vote.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.therepublic.com/view/local_story/Messer-puts-focus-on-jobs-budg_1352270428|title=Messer puts focus on jobs, budget work|last=Johannesen|first=Kirk|date=November 7, 2012|newspaper=The Republic|access-date=November 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518080331/http://www.therepublic.com/view/local_story/Messer-puts-focus-on-jobs-budg_1352270428|archive-date=May 18, 2015|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> After the election, Messer moved to the [[Washington metropolitan area]].<ref name=goes>{{cite web|url=http://madisoncourier.com/Content/News/News/Article/Mr-Messer-goes-to-Washington-/178/961/74245|title=Mr. Messer goes to Washington|newspaper=Madison Courier|access-date=July 5, 2017}}</ref>


===Committee assignments===
===Committee assignments===
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* '''[[United States House Committee on Education and the Workforce|Committee on Education and the Workforce]]'''
* '''[[United States House Committee on Education and the Workforce|Committee on Education and the Workforce]]'''
** [[United States House Education Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Training|Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Training]]
** [[United States House Education Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Training|Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Training]]
* '''[[United States House Committee on Financial Services|Committee on Financial Services]]'''<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://messer.house.gov/about/committees-and-caucuses# |title=Archived copy |access-date=May 19, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406013618/https://messer.house.gov/about/committees-and-caucuses# |archive-date=April 6, 2017 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref>
* '''[[United States House Committee on Financial Services|Committee on Financial Services]]'''<ref>{{cite web |url=https://messer.house.gov/about/committees-and-caucuses |title=Committees and Caucuses &#124; Congressman Luke Messer |access-date=May 19, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406013618/https://messer.house.gov/about/committees-and-caucuses |archive-date=April 6, 2017 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref>


===Caucus memberships===
===Caucus memberships===
* [[United States Congressional International Conservation Caucus]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Our Members|url=https://royce.house.gov/internationalconservation/members.html|publisher=U.S. House of Representatives International Conservation Caucus|accessdate=4 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180801155201/https://royce.house.gov/internationalconservation/members.html|archive-date=August 1, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[United States Congressional International Conservation Caucus]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Our Members|url=https://royce.house.gov/internationalconservation/members.html|publisher=U.S. House of Representatives International Conservation Caucus|access-date=4 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180801155201/https://royce.house.gov/internationalconservation/members.html|archive-date=August 1, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>


===Tenure===
===Tenure===
In November 2014, Messer was elected by his colleagues to Republican House Leadership as the [[Republican Policy Committee Chairman of the United States House of Representatives|House Republican Policy Committee Chairman]], succeeding [[James Lankford]], who had been elected to the [[United States Senate]]. Messer defeated [[Tom Reed (politician)|Tom Reed]] and [[Rob Woodall]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rollcall.com/news/republican-policy-committee-chairman|title=Indiana's Messer Wins Republican Policy Committee Gavel (Updated)|first=Matt|last=Fuller|date=November 13, 2014 |accessdate=October 5, 2017|via=www.rollcall.com}}</ref>
In November 2014, Messer was elected by his colleagues to Republican House Leadership as the [[Republican Policy Committee Chairman of the United States House of Representatives|House Republican Policy Committee Chairman]], succeeding [[James Lankford]], who had been elected to the [[United States Senate]]. Messer defeated [[Tom Reed (politician)|Tom Reed]] and [[Rob Woodall]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rollcall.com/news/republican-policy-committee-chairman|title=Indiana's Messer Wins Republican Policy Committee Gavel (Updated)|first=Matt|last=Fuller|date=November 13, 2014 |access-date=October 5, 2017|via=www.rollcall.com}}</ref>


In 2017, Messer founded the Congressional School Choice caucus to promote the expansion of school voucher programs.<ref name="Messer1">{{cite web|title=Messer has allies in push to expand school choice|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2017/01/24/messer-has-allies-push-expand-school-choice/96999430/|website=USA Today|accessdate=July 25, 2017}}</ref>
In 2017, Messer founded the Congressional School Choice caucus to promote the expansion of school voucher programs.<ref name="Messer1">{{cite web|title=Messer has allies in push to expand school choice|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2017/01/24/messer-has-allies-push-expand-school-choice/96999430/|website=USA Today|access-date=July 25, 2017}}</ref>


In May 2018, Messer led a group of 18 House Republicans unofficially nominating President Trump for the [[Nobel Peace Prize]] "for his efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and end the 68-year-old war between North and South Korea".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Greenwood|first1=Max|title=18 House Republicans nominate Trump for Nobel Peace Prize|url=http://thehill.com/homenews/house/385878-18-house-republicans-nominate-trump-for-nobel-peace-prize|website=The Hill|date=May 2, 2018|accessdate=2 May 2018}}</ref>
In May 2018, Messer led a group of 18 House Republicans unofficially nominating [[Donald Trump|President Trump]] for the [[Nobel Peace Prize]] "for his efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and end the 68-year-old war between North and South Korea".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Greenwood|first1=Max|title=18 House Republicans nominate Trump for Nobel Peace Prize|url=https://thehill.com/homenews/house/385878-18-house-republicans-nominate-trump-for-nobel-peace-prize/|website=The Hill|date=May 2, 2018|access-date=2 May 2018}}</ref>


==Political views and legislation==
==Political views and legislation==
Messer, like Pence, is an ardent conservative. During his initial run for Congress, Messer told [[NPR]] member [[WFIU]], "If you like Congressman Mike Pence, we’re going to have very similar philosophy in the way we approach the job."<ref>{{cite web | url=http://indianapublicmedia.org/news/6th-district-candidates-compare-mike-pence-38942/ | title =6th District Candidates Compare Themselves To Mike Pence | publisher =[[WFIU]] | date =October 29, 2012 | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20131213154346/http://indianapublicmedia.org/news/6th-district-candidates-compare-mike-pence-38942/ | access-date =February 11, 2021| archive-date =December 13, 2013 }}</ref>


===Social issues===
===Social issues===
Messer [[Anti-abortion movement|opposes abortion rights]]. He has a 100% rating from Indiana Right to Life for his abortion-related voting record. He opposes the federal government funding organizations that offer abortions, unless the abortions are the result of rape or incest or the woman's life is threatened.<ref name="OTIAbortion">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Abortion|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Abortion.htm|website=On The Issues|accessdate=December 28, 2017}}</ref>
Messer [[Anti-abortion movement|opposes abortion rights]]. He has a 100% rating from Indiana Right to Life for his abortion-related voting record. He opposes the federal government funding organizations that offer abortions, unless the abortions are the result of rape or incest or the woman's life is threatened.<ref name="OTIAbortion">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Abortion|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Abortion.htm|website=On The Issues|access-date=December 28, 2017}}</ref>


On January 4, 2013, Messer voted for the Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act, which prohibits distribution of federal [[family planning]] funds to organizations that offer abortions unless the abortion is the result of pregnancy from incest or rape or the woman's life is at risk.<ref name="OTIAbortion" />
On January 4, 2013, Messer voted for the Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act, which prohibits distribution of federal [[family planning]] funds to organizations that offer abortions unless the abortion is the result of pregnancy from incest or rape or the woman's life is at risk.<ref name="OTIAbortion" />


Messer opposes [[same-sex marriage]].<ref name="OTICivil">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Civil Rights|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Civil_Rights.htm|website=On The Issues|accessdate=December 28, 2017}}</ref>
Messer opposes [[same-sex marriage]].<ref name="OTICivil">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Civil Rights|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Civil_Rights.htm|website=On The Issues|access-date=December 28, 2017}}</ref>


===Economic issues===
===Economic issues===
On May 9, 2013, Messer voted for the Full Faith and Credit Act, which prioritized spending if the [[debt limit]] is reached.<ref name="OTIBudget">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Budget & Economy|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Budget_+_Economy.htm|website=On The Issues|accessdate=December 28, 2017}}</ref> Messer voted for the [[Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017]] and has stated his support for reforming the tax code to simplify it and reduce tax rates.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rep. Luke Messer: GOP Tax plan will create more jobs and bigger paychecks|url=https://www.cnbc.com/video/2017/11/02/rep-luke-messer-gop-tax-plan-will-create-more-jobs-and-bigger-paycheck.html|accessdate=December 4, 2017|publisher=CNBC|date=November 2, 2017}}</ref> In 2013, he signed a pledge sponsored by conservative advocacy group [[Americans for Prosperity]] promising to vote against any global warming legislation that would raise taxes.{{citation needed|date=December 2017}}
On May 9, 2013, Messer voted for the Full Faith and Credit Act, which prioritized spending if the [[debt limit]] is reached.<ref name="OTIBudget">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Budget & Economy|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Budget_+_Economy.htm|website=On The Issues|access-date=December 28, 2017}}</ref> Messer voted for the [[Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017]] and has stated his support for reforming the tax code to simplify it and reduce tax rates.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rep. Luke Messer: GOP Tax plan will create more jobs and bigger paychecks|url=https://www.cnbc.com/video/2017/11/02/rep-luke-messer-gop-tax-plan-will-create-more-jobs-and-bigger-paycheck.html|access-date=December 4, 2017|publisher=CNBC|date=November 2, 2017}}</ref> In 2013, he signed a pledge sponsored by conservative advocacy group [[Americans for Prosperity]] promising to vote against any global warming legislation that would raise taxes.{{citation needed|date=December 2017}}


Messer supports a [[balanced budget amendment]]. He opposes federal stimulus spending and supports limiting federal spending growth to per-capita inflation rate.<ref name="OTIBudget"/>
Messer supports a [[balanced budget amendment]]. He opposes federal stimulus spending and supports limiting federal spending growth to per-capita inflation rate.<ref name="OTIBudget"/>


===Education===
===Education===
In August 2013, Messer worked to pass bipartisan legislation to prevent student loan interest rates from doubling in 2013 and to link student loan interest rates to market rates.<ref>{{cite news|title=An Unusual Feat in Congress: Student Loan Bill Breezes On|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/01/us/politics/an-unusual-feat-in-congress-student-loan-bill-breezes-on.html|access-date=July 25, 2017|newspaper=The New York Times|date=July 31, 2013}}</ref>
In July 2017, Messer authored legislation to "upend the way American students pay for college."<ref name="Forbes">{{cite magazine|title=A New Way To Pay For College Gets A Boost In Congress|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/prestoncooper2/2017/07/06/a-new-way-to-pay-for-college-gets-a-boost-in-congress/#68356331203b|accessdate=July 25, 2017|magazine=Forbes|date=July 6, 2017}}</ref> His legislation lays the framework for income share agreements, which have several advantages over traditional student loans.<ref name="Forbes"/> Messer has introduced legislation to require annual debt letters to be sent to student loan borrowers, which is based on an Indiana University program that reduced borrowing at the institution by 10 percent.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bill would make IU student debt initiative a nationwide requirement |url=http://www.heraldtimesonline.com/news/local/bill-would-make-iu-student-debt-initiative-a-nationwide-requirement/article_fd88c489-ae11-5278-a897-ce5f0db2ec36.html|accessdate=July 25, 2017|publisher=The Bloomington Herald Times|date=March 18, 2017}}</ref> Messer worked with Sen. Patty Murray to restore Pell Grant eligibility to students who were attending ITT Tech when the institution closed, by convincing the Education Department to restore these benefits using an existing statute.<ref>{{cite web|title=Bipartisan Solution |url=https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2016/10/31/wide-praise-restoration-pell-grant-eligibility-students-closed-colleges|accessdate=July 25, 2017 |website=Inside Higher Ed|date=October 31, 2016}}</ref>


In July 2017, Messer authored legislation to "upend the way American students pay for college."<ref name="Forbes">{{cite magazine|title=A New Way To Pay For College Gets A Boost In Congress|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/prestoncooper2/2017/07/06/a-new-way-to-pay-for-college-gets-a-boost-in-congress/#68356331203b|access-date=July 25, 2017|magazine=Forbes|date=July 6, 2017}}</ref> His legislation lays the framework for income share agreements, which have several advantages over traditional student loans.<ref name="Forbes"/> Messer has introduced legislation to require annual debt letters to be sent to student loan borrowers, which is based on an Indiana University program that reduced borrowing at the institution by 10 percent.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bill would make IU student debt initiative a nationwide requirement |url=http://www.heraldtimesonline.com/news/local/bill-would-make-iu-student-debt-initiative-a-nationwide-requirement/article_fd88c489-ae11-5278-a897-ce5f0db2ec36.html|access-date=July 25, 2017|publisher=The Bloomington Herald Times|date=March 18, 2017}}</ref> Messer worked with Sen. [[Patty Murray]] to restore Pell Grant eligibility to students who were attending ITT Tech when the institution closed, by convincing the Education Department to restore these benefits using an existing statute.<ref>{{cite web|title=Bipartisan Solution |url=https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2016/10/31/wide-praise-restoration-pell-grant-eligibility-students-closed-colleges|access-date=July 25, 2017 |website=Inside Higher Ed|date=October 31, 2016}}</ref>
In August 2013, Messer worked to pass bipartisan legislation to prevent student loan interest rates from doubling in 2013 and to link student loan interest rates to market rates.<ref>{{cite news|title=An Unusual Feat in Congress: Student Loan Bill Breezes On|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/01/us/politics/an-unusual-feat-in-congress-student-loan-bill-breezes-on.html|accessdate=July 25, 2017|newspaper=The New York Times|date=July 31, 2013}}</ref>


Messer supports the expansion of school voucher programs.<ref name="Messer1"/>
Messer supports the expansion of school voucher programs.<ref name="Messer1"/>
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Messer is in favor of repealing the [[Affordable Care Act]] ("Obamacare") and replacing it with "something better".<ref name="Wiechmann5417"/>
Messer is in favor of repealing the [[Affordable Care Act]] ("Obamacare") and replacing it with "something better".<ref name="Wiechmann5417"/>


In May 2017, Messer voted for the House bill [[American Health Care Act of 2017]], to partially repeal the [[Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act]].<ref name="Wiechmann5417">{{cite web|last1=Wiechmann|first1=Stephanie|title=Congressman Messer Votes For AHCA As Healthcare Plan Passes House|url=https://indianapublicradio.org/news/2017/05/congressman-messer-votes-for-ahca-as-healthcare-plan-passes-house/|website=Indiana Public Radio|accessdate=December 28, 2017|date=May 4, 2017}}</ref>
In May 2017, Messer voted for the House bill [[American Health Care Act of 2017]], to partially repeal the [[Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act]].<ref name="Wiechmann5417">{{cite news|last1=Wiechmann|first1=Stephanie|title=Congressman Messer Votes For AHCA As Healthcare Plan Passes House|url=https://indianapublicradio.org/news/2017/05/congressman-messer-votes-for-ahca-as-healthcare-plan-passes-house/|website=Indiana Public Radio|access-date=December 28, 2017|date=May 4, 2017}}</ref>


===Immigration===
===Immigration===
In July 2017, Messer authored legislation that would prevent undocumented immigrants from claiming the child tax credit.<ref>{{cite news|title=GOP rep urges Trump to prevent illegal immigrants from claiming child tax credits|url=http://thehill.com/policy/finance/319244-gop-rep-urges-trump-to-prevent-illegal-immigrants-from-claiming-tax-credits|accessdate=July 25, 2017|publisher=The Hill|date=February 13, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://money.cnn.com/2017/12/04/pf/taxes/undocumented-immigrants-tax-bill/index.html|title=How the GOP tax bills hurt undocumented immigrants|last=DePillis|first=Lydia|work=CNNMoney|access-date=December 4, 2017}}</ref> President Donald Trump included the same proposal in his 2018 budget request to Congress.<ref>{{cite news|title=The proposal was included in President Donald Trump's 2018 budget request to Congress.|url=http://eaglecountryonline.com/local-article/messer-applauds-trump-budgets-elimination-of-child-tax-credit-for-illegal-immigrants/|accessdate=July 25, 2017|publisher=WSCH|date=May 24, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171017045252/http://eaglecountryonline.com/local-article/messer-applauds-trump-budgets-elimination-of-child-tax-credit-for-illegal-immigrants/|archive-date=October 17, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>
In July 2017, Messer authored legislation that would prevent undocumented immigrants from claiming the child tax credit.<ref>{{cite news|title=GOP rep urges Trump to prevent illegal immigrants from claiming child tax credits|url=https://thehill.com/policy/finance/319244-gop-rep-urges-trump-to-prevent-illegal-immigrants-from-claiming-tax-credits/|access-date=July 25, 2017|work=The Hill|date=February 13, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://money.cnn.com/2017/12/04/pf/taxes/undocumented-immigrants-tax-bill/index.html|title=How the GOP tax bills hurt undocumented immigrants|last=DePillis|first=Lydia|work=CNNMoney|access-date=December 4, 2017}}</ref> President Donald Trump included the same proposal in his 2018 budget request to Congress.<ref>{{cite news|title=The proposal was included in President Donald Trump's 2018 budget request to Congress.|url=http://eaglecountryonline.com/local-article/messer-applauds-trump-budgets-elimination-of-child-tax-credit-for-illegal-immigrants/|access-date=July 25, 2017|publisher=WSCH|date=May 24, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171017045252/http://eaglecountryonline.com/local-article/messer-applauds-trump-budgets-elimination-of-child-tax-credit-for-illegal-immigrants/|archive-date=October 17, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Messer commented on the work of a 2013 bipartisan House working group on immigration reform, saying that a pathway to citizenship and a deal on metrics to measure border security would be the biggest challenges to final passage of immigration reform.<ref name="msnbc.com">{{Cite news |url=http://www.nbcnews.com/id/51394871/t/house-working-group-unveil-immigration-plan/#.WVF03BMrLBI|title=House working group to unveil immigration plan |date=April 8, 2013|work=msnbc.com|access-date=June 26, 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Immigration deal in sight |url=http://www.nbcnews.com/video/daily-rundown/51394017#51394017|accessdate=July 13, 2017}}</ref> Messer told Indiana's Biz Voice Magazine, "Those who came here unlawfully will have to pay penalties and back fees." <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bizvoicemagazine.com/media/archives/13julaug/LukeMesser.pdf|title=Popular Newcomer Eyes Progress|last=Patrick|first=Rebecca|date=July 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924233555/http://www.bizvoicemagazine.com/media/archives/13julaug/LukeMesser.pdf|archive-date=September 24, 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/obama-puts-spotlight-on-immigration-reform/1677797.html|title=Obama Puts Spotlight on Immigration Reform|work=VOA|access-date=June 26, 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref name="msnbc.com"/>
Messer commented on the work of a 2013 bipartisan House working group on immigration reform, saying that a pathway to citizenship and a deal on metrics to measure border security would be the biggest challenges to final passage of immigration reform.<ref name="msnbc.com">{{Cite news |url=http://www.nbcnews.com/id/51394871/t/house-working-group-unveil-immigration-plan/#.WVF03BMrLBI|title=House working group to unveil immigration plan |date=April 8, 2013|work=msnbc.com|access-date=June 26, 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Immigration deal in sight |url=http://www.nbcnews.com/video/daily-rundown/51394017#51394017|access-date=July 13, 2017}}</ref> Messer told Indiana's Biz Voice Magazine, "Those who came here unlawfully will have to pay penalties and back fees."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bizvoicemagazine.com/media/archives/13julaug/LukeMesser.pdf|title=Popular Newcomer Eyes Progress|last=Patrick|first=Rebecca|date=July 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924233555/http://www.bizvoicemagazine.com/media/archives/13julaug/LukeMesser.pdf|archive-date=September 24, 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/obama-puts-spotlight-on-immigration-reform/1677797.html|title=Obama Puts Spotlight on Immigration Reform|work=VOA|access-date=June 26, 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref name="msnbc.com"/>


Messer supported President [[Donald Trump]]'s 2017 [[Executive Order 13769|executive order]] to impose a temporary ban on entry to the U.S. to citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries, describing it as a measure to "protect Americans from terrorist threats" and saying that "President Trump is right to prioritize American safety."<ref name="Blake1">{{cite web|last1=Blake|first1=Aaron|title=Coffman, Gardner join Republicans against President Trump's travel ban; here's where the rest stand|url=http://www.denverpost.com/2017/01/29/republicans-on-trump-travel-ban/|website=Denver Post|date=January 29, 2017|accessdate=January 30, 2017}}</ref>
Messer supported President [[Donald Trump]]'s 2017 [[Executive Order 13769|executive order]] to impose a temporary ban on entry to the U.S. to citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries, describing it as a measure to "protect Americans from terrorist threats" and saying that "President Trump is right to prioritize American safety."<ref name="Blake1">{{cite web|last1=Blake|first1=Aaron|title=Coffman, Gardner join Republicans against President Trump's travel ban; here's where the rest stand|url=http://www.denverpost.com/2017/01/29/republicans-on-trump-travel-ban/|website=Denver Post|date=January 29, 2017|access-date=January 30, 2017}}</ref>


===Veterans===
===Veterans===
Messer supported a GI Bill reform package passed by the House on June 25, 2017<ref>{{cite news|title=The Latest: House approves big expansion of GI Bill benefits|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/latest-house-rejects-plan-address-vas-budget-gap-48825458|accessdate=July 25, 2017|publisher=ABC News |date=July 24, 2017}}</ref> and signed into law by President Trump,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.legion.org/legislative/238884/gi-bill-officially-becomes-forever-benefit|title=GI Bill officially becomes a forever benefit|website=The American Legion|language=en|access-date=October 25, 2017}}</ref> which included a provision he authored that would retroactively restore education benefits to veterans attending schools that close mid-semester, like ITT Technical Institute.<ref>{{cite news|title=Expanded GI Bill passes House on unanimous vote |url=http://www.journalgazette.net/news/local/indiana/20170725/expanded-gi-bill-passes-house-on-unanimous-vote|accessdate=July 25, 2017|publisher=Fort Wayne Journal Gazette|date=July 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Veterans await help after ITT Tech shutdown|url=http://wishtv.com/2017/07/14/veterans-await-help-after-itt-tech-shutdown/|accessdate=July 25, 2017|publisher=WISH-TV|date=July 14, 2017}}</ref>
Messer supported a GI Bill reform package passed by the House on June 25, 2017<ref>{{cite news|title=The Latest: House approves big expansion of GI Bill benefits|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/latest-house-rejects-plan-address-vas-budget-gap-48825458|access-date=July 25, 2017|publisher=ABC News |date=July 24, 2017}}</ref> and signed into law by President Trump,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.legion.org/legislative/238884/gi-bill-officially-becomes-forever-benefit|title=GI Bill officially becomes a forever benefit|website=The American Legion|language=en|access-date=October 25, 2017}}</ref> which included a provision he authored that would retroactively restore education benefits to veterans attending schools that close mid-semester, like ITT Technical Institute.<ref>{{cite news|title=Expanded GI Bill passes House on unanimous vote |url=http://www.journalgazette.net/news/local/indiana/20170725/expanded-gi-bill-passes-house-on-unanimous-vote|access-date=July 25, 2017|publisher=Fort Wayne Journal Gazette|date=July 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Veterans await help after ITT Tech shutdown|url=http://wishtv.com/2017/07/14/veterans-await-help-after-itt-tech-shutdown/|access-date=July 25, 2017|publisher=WISH-TV|date=July 14, 2017}}</ref>


===Crime===
===Crime===
In February 2013, Messer voted in favor of reauthorizing the [[Violence Against Women Act]].<ref name="OTICivil"/>
In February 2013, Messer voted in favor of reauthorizing the [[Violence Against Women Act]].<ref name="OTICivil"/>


Messer has a 62% rating from the [[National Association of Police Organizations]] for his voting record on issues importance to police and crime.<ref name="OTIcrime">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Crime|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Crime.htm|website=On The Issues|accessdate=December 28, 2017}}</ref>
Messer has a 62% rating from the [[National Association of Police Organizations]] for his voting record on issues importance to police and crime.<ref name="OTIcrime">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Crime|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Crime.htm|website=On The Issues|access-date=December 28, 2017}}</ref>


Messer has a "D" rating from [[NORML]] for his voting history regarding [[cannabis]]-related causes. Messer opposes veterans having access to medical marijuana if recommended by their [[Veterans Health Administration]] doctor and if it is legal for medicinal purposes in their state of residence.<ref name="NORML">{{cite web|title=Indiana Scorecard|url=http://norml.org/congressional-scorecard/indiana|website=NORML|accessdate=December 28, 2017|language=en-us}}</ref>
Messer has a "D" rating from [[NORML]] for his voting history regarding [[cannabis]]-related causes. Messer opposes veterans having access to medical marijuana if recommended by their [[Veterans Health Administration]] doctor and if it is legal for medicinal purposes in their state of residence.<ref name="NORML">{{cite web|title=Indiana Scorecard|url=http://norml.org/congressional-scorecard/indiana|website=NORML|access-date=December 28, 2017|language=en-us|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160608144654/http://norml.org/congressional-scorecard/indiana|archive-date=June 8, 2016|url-status=usurped}}</ref>


===Gun rights===
===Gun rights===


In 2012, the [[National Rifle Association]] gave Messer an "A" rating for his gun-related voting record. Messer opposes restrictions on gun purchases.<ref name="OTIGun">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Gun Control|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Gun_Control.htm|website=On The Issues|accessdate=December 28, 2017}}</ref>
In 2012 and 2016, the [[NRA Political Victory Fund]] gave Messer an "A" rating for his gun-related voting record. Messer opposes restrictions on gun purchases.<ref>{{cite web |title=VOTE FREEDOM FIRST ON OR BEFORE MAY 3RD – VOTE LUKE MESSER FOR U.S. HOUSE! |url=https://www.nrapvf.org/emails/2016/indiana/luke-messer-in06-endorsement-email/ |website=nrapvf.org |publisher=NRA-PVF |access-date=17 August 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230817131044/https://www.nrapvf.org/emails/2016/indiana/luke-messer-in06-endorsement-email/ |archive-date=17 August 2023 |language=en-US |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="OTIGun">{{cite web|title=Luke Messer on Gun Control|url=http://www.ontheissues.org/IN/Luke_Messer_Gun_Control.htm|website=On The Issues|access-date=December 28, 2017}}</ref>


==Electoral history==
==Electoral history==
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=== 2000 ===
=== 2000 ===


'''{{Election box begin no change
{{Election box begin no change
|title=Indiana's 2nd Congressional District Republican primary election (2000)}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate='''[[Mike Pence]]'''|votes='''21,582'''|percentage='''44.48'''}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Jeffery M. Linder|votes=11,615|percentage=23.94}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Luke Messer|votes=10,075|percentage=20.76}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Brad D. Steele|votes=2,819|percentage=5.81}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=David M. (Mike) Campbell|votes=1,913|percentage=3.94}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Cliff Federle|votes=513|percentage=1.06}}
|title=Indiana's 2nd Congressional District Republican primary election (2000)}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate='''[[Mike Pence]]'''|votes='''21,582'''|percentage='''44.48'''}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Jeffery M. Linder|votes=11,615|percentage=23.94}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Luke Messer|votes=10,075|percentage=20.76}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Brad D. Steele|votes=2,819|percentage=5.81}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=David M. (Mike) Campbell|votes=1,913|percentage=3.94}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Cliff Federle|votes=513|percentage=1.06}}
{{Election box end}}
{{Election box end}}
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=== 2010 ===
=== 2010 ===


'''{{Election box begin no change
{{Election box begin no change
|title=Indiana's 5th Congressional District Republican primary election (2010)}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate='''[[Dan Burton]] (incumbent)'''|votes='''32,649'''|percentage='''30'''}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Luke Messer|votes=30,386|percentage=28}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=John McGoff|votes=20,645|percentage=19}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Michael B. Murphy|votes=9,761|percentage=9}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Brose McVey|votes=9,355|percentage=8}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Andy Lyons|votes=3,948|percentage=4}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Ann Adcook|votes=3,344|percentage=3}} {{Election box end}}
|title=Indiana's 5th Congressional District Republican primary election (2010)}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate='''[[Dan Burton]] (incumbent)'''|votes='''32,649'''|percentage='''30'''}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Luke Messer|votes=30,386|percentage=28}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=John McGoff|votes=20,645|percentage=19}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Michael B. Murphy|votes=9,761|percentage=9}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Brose McVey|votes=9,355|percentage=8}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Andy Lyons|votes=3,948|percentage=4}}{{Election box candidate with party link no change|party=Republican Party (United States)|candidate=Ann Adcook|votes=3,344|percentage=3}} {{Election box end}}


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{{Election box begin no change
{{Election box begin no change
| title= [[United States House of Representatives elections in Indiana, 2012#District 6|Indiana's 6th Congressional District election, 2012]] <ref name="IED">{{cite web | title = Election Results| publisher = Indiana Elections Division| date = November 28, 2012| url = http://www.in.gov/apps/sos/election/general/general2012?page=office&countyID=-1&officeID=5&districtID=-1&candidate=| accessdate = December 30, 2012 }}</ref>
| title= [[United States House of Representatives elections in Indiana, 2012#District 6|Indiana's 6th Congressional District election, 2012]]<ref name="IED">{{cite web | title = Election Results| publisher = Indiana Elections Division| date = November 28, 2012| url = http://www.in.gov/apps/sos/election/general/general2012?page=office&countyID=-1&officeID=5&districtID=-1&candidate=| access-date = December 30, 2012 }}</ref>
}}
}}
{{Election box winning candidate with party link no change
{{Election box winning candidate with party link no change
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==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Messer and his wife Jennifer have two daughters and one son. Luke and Jennifer Messer are the authors of a children's book, ''Hoosier Heart''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://projects.wsj.com/campaign2012/candidates/view/luke-messer--IN-H |title=Election 2012 Luke Messer bio; The Wallstreet Journal |publisher=projects.wsj.com |accessdate=December 9, 2012}}</ref>
Messer and his wife Jennifer have two daughters and one son. Luke and Jennifer Messer are the authors of a children's book, ''Hoosier Heart''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://projects.wsj.com/campaign2012/candidates/view/luke-messer--IN-H |title=Election 2012 Luke Messer bio; The Wall Street Journal |publisher=projects.wsj.com |access-date=December 9, 2012}}</ref>


Messer was cited for [[driving under the influence]] (DUI) in 1990 and 1996.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2018/04/19/luke-messer-indiana-primary-2018-senate-race-didnt-disclose-duis-when-lawmaker-drunk-driving/511788002/ |title=Luke Messer didn't disclose DUIs when he replaced lawmaker killed by drunk driver |publisher=IndyStar.com |date=2018-04-19 |accessdate=2018-04-19}}</ref>
Messer was cited for [[driving under the influence]] (DUI) in 1990 and 1996.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2018/04/19/luke-messer-indiana-primary-2018-senate-race-didnt-disclose-duis-when-lawmaker-drunk-driving/511788002/ |title=Luke Messer didn't disclose DUIs when he replaced lawmaker killed by drunk driver |publisher=IndyStar.com |date=2018-04-19 |access-date=2018-04-19}}</ref>


Following Messer's election to Congress, he sold his house in [[Shelbyville, Indiana]] and moved to [[McLean, Virginia]], a [[Washington, D.C.]] suburb.<ref name=goes/> He is now listed as a registered voter at his mother's address in [[Greensburg, Indiana]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.journalgazette.net/news/local/local-politics/20170726/messer-announces-senate-bid |title=Messer announces Senate bid|last=Francisco|first=Brian|work=journalgazette.net|access-date=October 4, 2017|language=en-US}}</ref> Messer has clarified that he owns the home with his mother and lives there when he is in the state.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.wibc.com/blogs/tony-katz/tony-katz-today/exclusive-messer-sets-abc-news-associated-press-straight-wifes|title=EXCLUSIVE: Messer Sets ABC News, Associated Press Straight on Wife's Employment, Living Situation {{!}} 93.1 WIBC|work=93.1 WIBC|access-date=October 4, 2017|language=en}}</ref> He faced criticism from his opponents in the 2018 Republican primary election for the [[United States Senate]] for moving his family to the Washington, D.C. area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rollcall.com/news/home/indiana-reps-wrestle-residency|title=Indiana Reps Still Wrestling With Residency|date=September 15, 2015|website=Roll Call|access-date=July 15, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rollcall.com/news/politics/indiana-senate-primary-messer-rokita|title=Indiana Headed for Another Member-on-Member Senate Primary|date=March 23, 2017|website=Roll Call|access-date=July 15, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.journalgazette.net/blog/political-notebook/20170521/republicans-with-eye-on-senate-heat-up-their-feud|title=Republicans with eye on Senate heat up their feud {{!}} Political notebook {{!}} Journal Gazette|website=www.journalgazette.net|access-date=July 15, 2017}}</ref>
Following Messer's election to Congress, he sold his house in [[Shelbyville, Indiana]] and moved to [[McLean, Virginia]], a [[Washington, D.C.]] suburb.<ref name=goes/> He is now listed as a registered voter at his mother's address in [[Greensburg, Indiana]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.journalgazette.net/news/local/local-politics/20170726/messer-announces-senate-bid |title=Messer announces Senate bid|last=Francisco|first=Brian|work=journalgazette.net|access-date=October 4, 2017|language=en-US}}</ref> Messer has clarified that he owns the home with his mother and lives there when he is in the state.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.wibc.com/blogs/tony-katz/tony-katz-today/exclusive-messer-sets-abc-news-associated-press-straight-wifes|title=EXCLUSIVE: Messer Sets ABC News, Associated Press Straight on Wife's Employment, Living Situation {{!}} 93.1 WIBC|work=93.1 WIBC|access-date=October 4, 2017|language=en}}</ref> He faced criticism from his opponents in the 2018 Republican primary election for the [[United States Senate]] for moving his family to the Washington, D.C. area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rollcall.com/news/home/indiana-reps-wrestle-residency|title=Indiana Reps Still Wrestling With Residency|date=September 15, 2015|website=Roll Call|access-date=July 15, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rollcall.com/news/politics/indiana-senate-primary-messer-rokita|title=Indiana Headed for Another Member-on-Member Senate Primary|date=March 23, 2017|website=Roll Call|access-date=July 15, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.journalgazette.net/blog/political-notebook/20170521/republicans-with-eye-on-senate-heat-up-their-feud|title=Republicans with eye on Senate heat up their feud {{!}} Political notebook {{!}} Journal Gazette|website=www.journalgazette.net|access-date=July 15, 2017}}</ref>


[[Fishers, Indiana|Fishers]], an Indianapolis suburb, has paid Messer's wife, Jennifer Messer, $580,000 since 2015 in legal consulting she primarily does from the family's Washington, D.C. area home.<ref name="Indianapolis Star">{{Cite news|url=http://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2017/05/11/ap-fishers-pays-rep-luke-messers-wife-20-k-month/318555001/|title=AP: Fishers pays Rep. Luke Messer's wife $20K/month|work=Indianapolis Star|access-date=June 13, 2017 |language=en}}</ref> She is paid $20,000 a month as a part-time contract attorney for the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cbs4indy.com/2017/06/21/ap-report-fishers-pays-rep-luke-messers-wife-240k-for-part-time-job/|title=AP report: Fishers pays Rep. Luke Messer's wife $240K for part-time job|date=June 21, 2017 |website=CBS 4 - Indianapolis News, Weather, Traffic and Sports {{!}} WTTV|access-date=June 22, 2017}}</ref> Jennifer Messer began the work for the City of Fishers two years before her husband was elected to Congress.<ref name="Indianapolis Star"/> Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness said the arrangement helped usher in an era of "unprecedented" economic success in the growing suburb of about 85,000 people.<ref name="Indianapolis Star"/> Messer has defended his wife's work, calling her "the brains of the Messer outfit", and Jennifer defended her work in an op-ed for ''[[The Indianapolis Star]]'', calling an [[Associated Press]] story about her "unfair, intellectually dishonest and straight-up sexist".<ref name="rollcall.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.rollcall.com/news/politics/messer-defends-wifes-contract-city|title=Messer Defends Wife's $20K a Month Contract With City|date=May 12, 2017 |website=Roll Call|access-date=June 13, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.indystar.com/story/opinion/2017/05/15/jennifer-messer-i-work-diligently-fishers/323033001/|title=Jennifer Messer: 'I work diligently for Fishers'|work=Indianapolis Star|access-date=June 22, 2017|language=en}}</ref>
[[Fishers, Indiana|Fishers]], an Indianapolis suburb, has paid Jennifer Messer $580,000 since 2015 in legal consulting she primarily does from the family's Washington, D.C. area home.<ref name="Indianapolis Star">{{Cite news|url=http://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2017/05/11/ap-fishers-pays-rep-luke-messers-wife-20-k-month/318555001/|title=AP: Fishers pays Rep. Luke Messer's wife $20K/month|work=Indianapolis Star|access-date=June 13, 2017 |language=en}}</ref> She is paid $20,000 a month as a part-time contract attorney for the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cbs4indy.com/2017/06/21/ap-report-fishers-pays-rep-luke-messers-wife-240k-for-part-time-job/|title=AP report: Fishers pays Rep. Luke Messer's wife $240K for part-time job|date=June 21, 2017 |website=CBS 4 - Indianapolis News, Weather, Traffic and Sports {{!}} WTTV|access-date=June 22, 2017}}</ref> Jennifer Messer began the work for the City of Fishers two years before her husband was elected to Congress.<ref name="Indianapolis Star"/> Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness said the arrangement helped usher in an era of "unprecedented" economic success in the growing suburb of about 85,000 people.<ref name="Indianapolis Star"/> Messer has defended his wife's work, calling her "the brains of the Messer outfit", and Jennifer defended her work in an op-ed for ''[[The Indianapolis Star]]'', calling an [[Associated Press]] story about her "unfair, intellectually dishonest and straight-up sexist".<ref name="rollcall.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.rollcall.com/news/politics/messer-defends-wifes-contract-city|title=Messer Defends Wife's $20K a Month Contract With City|date=May 12, 2017 |website=Roll Call|access-date=June 13, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.indystar.com/story/opinion/2017/05/15/jennifer-messer-i-work-diligently-fishers/323033001/|title=Jennifer Messer: 'I work diligently for Fishers'|work=Indianapolis Star|access-date=June 22, 2017|language=en}}</ref>

Messer is a [[Presbyterian]].<ref>{{Cite report |url=https://assets.pewresearch.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2017/01/19161723/Member-affiliations-for-web.pdf |title=Religious affiliation of members of 115th Congress |date=2017-01-03 |publisher=[[Pew Research Center]] |access-date=2023-04-18}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
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[[Category:Candidates in the 2018 United States Senate elections]]
[[Category:Indiana lawyers]]
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[[Category:Indiana Republicans]]
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[[Category:Members of the Indiana House of Representatives]]
[[Category:Republican Party members of the Indiana House of Representatives]]
[[Category:Members of the United States House of Representatives from Indiana]]
[[Category:Republican Party members of the United States House of Representatives from Indiana]]
[[Category:People from Shelbyville, Indiana]]
[[Category:People from Shelbyville, Indiana]]
[[Category:Politicians from Evansville, Indiana]]
[[Category:Politicians from Evansville, Indiana]]
[[Category:Presbyterians from Indiana]]
[[Category:Republican Party members of the United States House of Representatives]]
[[Category:Vanderbilt University Law School alumni]]
[[Category:Vanderbilt University Law School alumni]]
[[Category:Wabash College alumni]]
[[Category:Wabash College alumni]]
[[Category:Writers from Evansville, Indiana]]
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[[Category:Candidates in the 2010 United States elections]]

Revision as of 15:33, 18 May 2024

Luke Messer
Chair of the House Republican Policy Committee
In office
January 3, 2015 – January 3, 2019
LeaderJohn Boehner
Paul Ryan
Preceded byJames Lankford[1]
Succeeded byGary Palmer
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Indiana's 6th district
In office
January 3, 2013 – January 3, 2019
Preceded byMike Pence
Succeeded byGreg Pence
Member of the Indiana House of Representatives
from the 57th district
In office
May 21, 2003 – November 21, 2006
Preceded byRoland Stine
Succeeded bySean Eberhart
Personal details
Born
Allen Lucas Messer

(1969-02-27) February 27, 1969 (age 55)
Evansville, Indiana, U.S.
Political partyRepublican
SpouseJennifer Messer
EducationWabash College (BA)
Vanderbilt University (JD)
Signature

Allen Lucas Messer (born February 27, 1969) is an American politician and lobbyist who represented Indiana's 6th congressional district in the United States House of Representatives from 2013 to 2019. He is a member of the Republican Party.

Born in Evansville, Indiana, Messer is a graduate of Wabash College and Vanderbilt University Law School. After an unsuccessful run for the U.S. House in 2000, Messer served as the first executive director of the Indiana Republican Party from 2001 to 2005. Messer was appointed to serve in the Indiana House of Representatives in 2003, after State Representative W. Roland Stine was killed in a car accident. He represented Indiana's 57th District from 2003 to 2006, when he opted not to run for reelection and instead joined Ice Miller LLP's lobbying division. From 2006 to 2012, Messer was a registered lobbyist. He ran for the U.S. House again in 2010, but was unsuccessful in his primary challenge to Republican Dan Burton. When Mike Pence decided in 2012 to run for Governor of Indiana, Messer was elected to replace him, defeating Democratic nominee Brad Bookout.

On July 26, 2017, Messer announced that he would run for the U.S. Senate in 2018.[2] He was unsuccessful in the May 8 primary election, losing to Mike Braun.

Early life and career

Messer graduated from Greensburg Community High School in 1987.[3][4] Messer attended Wabash College where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and majored in speech. He graduated in 1991.[5] He received a Juris Doctor from Vanderbilt University Law School in 1994.[6][7] Shortly after graduating from Vanderbilt, he served as an Associate Counsel at Koch Industries from 1995 to 1996.[8]

Messer started his political career in 1997 as the press secretary for Tennessee Representative Ed Bryant. He was the legal counsel on the House Subcommittee for Government Reform for Indiana Representatives David McIntosh and Dan Burton from 1998 to 1999, and the legal counsel to U.S. Representative Jim Duncan later in 1999.[9] In 1998, he was the campaign manager for Virginia Murphy Blankenbaker's unsuccessful congressional campaign.[10] In 1999, Messer returned to Indiana and practiced law at the Barnes & Thornburg law firm in Indianapolis.[11]

In 2000, Messer ran for the United States House of Representatives in Indiana's 2nd congressional district, where incumbent David M. McIntosh was retiring to run for governor of Indiana in the 2000 election. Messer received the endorsement of The Indianapolis Star.[12] He received 21 percent of the vote in the Republican Party's primary election, finishing behind conservative talk show host Mike Pence, who won with 44 percent of the vote, and Jeff Linder, who received 24 percent of the vote.[13] In 2001, Messer was chosen as the executive director of the Indiana Republican Party.[14]

Indiana House of Representatives

On May 23, 2003, Messer was selected to succeed W. Roland Stine, who died in a traffic collision, in the Indiana House of Representatives for the 57th district.[15] From 2003 to 2006, Messer represented District 57 in the Indiana House of Representatives, which contained parts of Shelby County and Bartholomew County.[16] During the 2005-06 legislative session, Messer was Assistant Majority Floor Leader.[17] His legislation aimed at curbing high school dropout rates received national attention after Shelbyville High School became a symbol of a national dropout crisis.[18] He did not run for reelection as State Representative in 2006, and was succeeded by Sean Eberhart.[19]

Lobbying work

Messer was a registered lobbyist from 2006 to 2012.[20][21]

In 2006, Messer joined Ice Miller LLP's lobbying division as a partner of their public affairs group.[22][23][24] His decision to join Ice Miller came a month after voting in favor of Indiana leasing the Indiana Toll Road to Cintra-Macquarie, an international consortium, for "75 years at a cost of $3.85 billion." Ice Miller, Indiana's largest law firm, represented Cintra-Macquarie in the deal.[25] Messer said he "did not know they represented anyone in connection with the Toll Road."[24]

Messer served as the Indiana co-chair of John McCain's 2008 presidential campaign.[26] In 2010, Messer ran for the House of Representatives in Indiana's 5th congressional district. He challenged Dan Burton, the incumbent representative, in the Republican primary. Burton narrowly defeated Messer.[27] Messer then became president and CEO of School Choice Indiana, a lobbying group that supported Indiana's private school voucher law.[28]

Since being elected to Congress in 2012, Ice Miller LLP has been Messer's top source of campaign contributions, having given him $82,238.[29]

United States House of Representatives

Elections

In May 2011, Mike Pence announced his intention to run for Governor of Indiana. Messer subsequently declared his candidacy for the Republican nomination in the district, which had been renumbered as the 6th District after the 2000 census. His home in Shelbyville had been drawn back into the district after the 2010 census after being drawn into the neighboring 5th after the 2000 census.[30] On May 8, 2012, Messer defeated a crowded field of Republican candidates seeking the party's nomination, including Columbus real estate investor Travis Hankins, winning with 71% of the vote.[31] He faced Democrat Brad Bookout, a Delaware County councilman, in the general election.[32][33] On November 6, 2012, Messer defeated Bookout with roughly 59% of the vote.[34] After the election, Messer moved to the Washington metropolitan area.[35]

Committee assignments

Caucus memberships

Tenure

In November 2014, Messer was elected by his colleagues to Republican House Leadership as the House Republican Policy Committee Chairman, succeeding James Lankford, who had been elected to the United States Senate. Messer defeated Tom Reed and Rob Woodall.[38]

In 2017, Messer founded the Congressional School Choice caucus to promote the expansion of school voucher programs.[39]

In May 2018, Messer led a group of 18 House Republicans unofficially nominating President Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize "for his efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and end the 68-year-old war between North and South Korea".[40]

Political views and legislation

Messer, like Pence, is an ardent conservative. During his initial run for Congress, Messer told NPR member WFIU, "If you like Congressman Mike Pence, we’re going to have very similar philosophy in the way we approach the job."[41]

Social issues

Messer opposes abortion rights. He has a 100% rating from Indiana Right to Life for his abortion-related voting record. He opposes the federal government funding organizations that offer abortions, unless the abortions are the result of rape or incest or the woman's life is threatened.[42]

On January 4, 2013, Messer voted for the Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act, which prohibits distribution of federal family planning funds to organizations that offer abortions unless the abortion is the result of pregnancy from incest or rape or the woman's life is at risk.[42]

Messer opposes same-sex marriage.[43]

Economic issues

On May 9, 2013, Messer voted for the Full Faith and Credit Act, which prioritized spending if the debt limit is reached.[44] Messer voted for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and has stated his support for reforming the tax code to simplify it and reduce tax rates.[45] In 2013, he signed a pledge sponsored by conservative advocacy group Americans for Prosperity promising to vote against any global warming legislation that would raise taxes.[citation needed]

Messer supports a balanced budget amendment. He opposes federal stimulus spending and supports limiting federal spending growth to per-capita inflation rate.[44]

Education

In August 2013, Messer worked to pass bipartisan legislation to prevent student loan interest rates from doubling in 2013 and to link student loan interest rates to market rates.[46]

In July 2017, Messer authored legislation to "upend the way American students pay for college."[47] His legislation lays the framework for income share agreements, which have several advantages over traditional student loans.[47] Messer has introduced legislation to require annual debt letters to be sent to student loan borrowers, which is based on an Indiana University program that reduced borrowing at the institution by 10 percent.[48] Messer worked with Sen. Patty Murray to restore Pell Grant eligibility to students who were attending ITT Tech when the institution closed, by convincing the Education Department to restore these benefits using an existing statute.[49]

Messer supports the expansion of school voucher programs.[39]

Health care

Messer is in favor of repealing the Affordable Care Act ("Obamacare") and replacing it with "something better".[50]

In May 2017, Messer voted for the House bill American Health Care Act of 2017, to partially repeal the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.[50]

Immigration

In July 2017, Messer authored legislation that would prevent undocumented immigrants from claiming the child tax credit.[51][52] President Donald Trump included the same proposal in his 2018 budget request to Congress.[53]

Messer commented on the work of a 2013 bipartisan House working group on immigration reform, saying that a pathway to citizenship and a deal on metrics to measure border security would be the biggest challenges to final passage of immigration reform.[54][55] Messer told Indiana's Biz Voice Magazine, "Those who came here unlawfully will have to pay penalties and back fees."[56][57][54]

Messer supported President Donald Trump's 2017 executive order to impose a temporary ban on entry to the U.S. to citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries, describing it as a measure to "protect Americans from terrorist threats" and saying that "President Trump is right to prioritize American safety."[58]

Veterans

Messer supported a GI Bill reform package passed by the House on June 25, 2017[59] and signed into law by President Trump,[60] which included a provision he authored that would retroactively restore education benefits to veterans attending schools that close mid-semester, like ITT Technical Institute.[61][62]

Crime

In February 2013, Messer voted in favor of reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act.[43]

Messer has a 62% rating from the National Association of Police Organizations for his voting record on issues importance to police and crime.[63]

Messer has a "D" rating from NORML for his voting history regarding cannabis-related causes. Messer opposes veterans having access to medical marijuana if recommended by their Veterans Health Administration doctor and if it is legal for medicinal purposes in their state of residence.[64]

Gun rights

In 2012 and 2016, the NRA Political Victory Fund gave Messer an "A" rating for his gun-related voting record. Messer opposes restrictions on gun purchases.[65][66]

Electoral history

2000

Indiana's 2nd Congressional District Republican primary election (2000)
Party Candidate Votes %
Republican Mike Pence 21,582 44.48
Republican Jeffery M. Linder 11,615 23.94
Republican Luke Messer 10,075 20.76
Republican Brad D. Steele 2,819 5.81
Republican David M. (Mike) Campbell 1,913 3.94
Republican Cliff Federle 513 1.06

2006

Indiana House of Representatives, 57th District (2006)
Party Candidate Votes %
Republican Luke Messer 16,004 100
Total votes 16,004 100
Republican hold

2010

Indiana's 5th Congressional District Republican primary election (2010)
Party Candidate Votes %
Republican Dan Burton (incumbent) 32,649 30
Republican Luke Messer 30,386 28
Republican John McGoff 20,645 19
Republican Michael B. Murphy 9,761 9
Republican Brose McVey 9,355 8
Republican Andy Lyons 3,948 4
Republican Ann Adcook 3,344 3

2012

Indiana's 6th Congressional District election, 2012[67]
Party Candidate Votes %
Republican Luke Messer 162,613 59
Democratic Brad Bookout 96,678 35
Libertarian Rex Bell 15,962 6
Total votes 275,253 100
Republican hold

2014

Indiana's 6th Congressional District Election (2014)
Party Candidate Votes %
Republican Luke Messer* 102,187 65.90
Democratic Susan Hall Heitzman 45,509 29.35
Libertarian Eric Miller 7,375 4.76
Total votes 155,071 100.00
Turnout   32
Republican hold

2016

Indiana's 6th Congressional District Election (2016)
Party Candidate Votes %
Republican Luke Messer* 204,920 69.14
Democratic Barry A. Welsh 79,135 26.70
Libertarian Rich Turvey 12,330 4.16
Total votes 296,385 100.00
Turnout   59
Republican hold

2018

Indiana's U.S. Senate Republican Primary Election (2018)
Party Candidate Votes %
Republican Mike Braun 208,104 41.2
Republican Todd Rokita 151,675 30.0
Republican Luke Messer 145,772 28.8
Total votes 100

Personal life

Messer and his wife Jennifer have two daughters and one son. Luke and Jennifer Messer are the authors of a children's book, Hoosier Heart.[68]

Messer was cited for driving under the influence (DUI) in 1990 and 1996.[69]

Following Messer's election to Congress, he sold his house in Shelbyville, Indiana and moved to McLean, Virginia, a Washington, D.C. suburb.[35] He is now listed as a registered voter at his mother's address in Greensburg, Indiana.[70] Messer has clarified that he owns the home with his mother and lives there when he is in the state.[71] He faced criticism from his opponents in the 2018 Republican primary election for the United States Senate for moving his family to the Washington, D.C. area.[72][73][74]

Fishers, an Indianapolis suburb, has paid Jennifer Messer $580,000 since 2015 in legal consulting she primarily does from the family's Washington, D.C. area home.[75] She is paid $20,000 a month as a part-time contract attorney for the city.[76] Jennifer Messer began the work for the City of Fishers two years before her husband was elected to Congress.[75] Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness said the arrangement helped usher in an era of "unprecedented" economic success in the growing suburb of about 85,000 people.[75] Messer has defended his wife's work, calling her "the brains of the Messer outfit", and Jennifer defended her work in an op-ed for The Indianapolis Star, calling an Associated Press story about her "unfair, intellectually dishonest and straight-up sexist".[77][78]

Messer is a Presbyterian.[79]

References

  1. ^ "About". December 19, 2013.
  2. ^ By $${element.Contributor} (July 26, 2017). "Indiana Rep. Luke Messer Running for Senate". Roll Call. Rollcall.com. Retrieved April 17, 2018. {{cite news}}: |author= has generic name (help)
  3. ^ "Congressman Messer tells football players about sport's life lessons".
  4. ^ "Luke Messer Sworn in Today as State Representative for House District 57". in.gov. May 28, 2003. Retrieved January 17, 2013.
  5. ^ Torrez, Jonathan. "The Wabash College Bachelor" (PDF). wabash.edu. Wabash College Board of Publications. Retrieved December 9, 2014.
  6. ^ "Indiana's 6th House District Luke Messer bio; The National Journal". nationaljournal.com. Retrieved December 9, 2012.
  7. ^ "Ex-McIntosh aide is seeking GOP nod to fill seat". The Indianapolis Star. October 14, 1999. Retrieved September 15, 2012. (subscription required)
  8. ^ "LUKE MESSER INFORMATION". solitical.com. Archived from the original on October 22, 2013. Retrieved January 17, 2013.
  9. ^ "REPRESENTATIVE LUKE MESSER'S BIOGRAPHY". votesmart.org. Retrieved January 17, 2013.
  10. ^ "President George W. Bush-Campaign Organization, Indiana". georgewashingtonuniversity.edu. Retrieved January 17, 2013.
  11. ^ "Wabash Alumnus Elected to Indiana General Assembly". wabash.edu. May 22, 2003. Retrieved January 17, 2013.
  12. ^ "Candidate Messer's good ideas for positive change". The Indianapolis Star. April 17, 2000. Retrieved September 15, 2012. (subscription required)
  13. ^ Musgrave, Beth (May 3, 2000). "Pence wraps up GOP nomination for U.S. 2nd Congressional District". Palladium-Item. Richmond, Indiana. p. A1. Retrieved April 20, 2020 – via Newspapers.com. (subscription required)
  14. ^ "Director named". The Republic. August 23, 2001. p. 2. Retrieved April 17, 2018 – via Newspapers.com. (subscription required)
  15. ^ "23 May 2003, Page 26 - The Indianapolis Star at". Newspapers.com. May 23, 2003. Retrieved June 5, 2022.
  16. ^ "IBJ Newsbank Archives". Nl.newsbank.com. February 7, 2005. Retrieved September 14, 2012. (subscription required)
  17. ^ "INDIANA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COMMITTEE CHAIRS // 2005-2006". state.in.us. Retrieved January 17, 2013.
  18. ^ Thornburgh/Shelbyville, Nathan (April 9, 2006). "Drop Out Nation; Time Magazine". www.time.com. Archived from the original on November 6, 2006. Retrieved December 9, 2012.
  19. ^ "Election 2006: Indiana House". Indianapolis Star. October 31, 2006. Retrieved September 15, 2012. (subscription required)
  20. ^ "Lobbyist Browsing". secure.in.gov. Retrieved July 2, 2017.
  21. ^ GUINANE, PATRICK. "Lawmaker to work for firm linked to Toll Road lease". nwitimes.com. Retrieved July 2, 2017.
  22. ^ InsideIndianaBusiness.com Report. "State Representative Luke Messer Joins Ice Miller – Newsroom – Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick". Insideindianabusiness.com. Archived from the original on October 21, 2013. Retrieved September 15, 2012. {{cite web}}: |author= has generic name (help)
  23. ^ "INDIANA: Lawmaker-Lobbyist". Bond Buyer. Retrieved June 21, 2017.
  24. ^ a b GUINANE, PATRICK. "Lawmaker to work for firm linked to Toll Road lease". nwitimes.com. Retrieved June 21, 2017.
  25. ^ "25 Largest Indianapolis-Area Law Firms". AmericanRegistry.com. March 2005.
  26. ^ Davies, Tom (September 24, 2008). "Politics | Obama out to flip Indiana to Dems | Seattle Times Newspaper". Seattletimes.com. Retrieved September 15, 2012.
  27. ^ Schneider, Mary Beth (July 9, 2011). "Candidates line up for Pence's open seat in Congress". The Indianapolis Star. Retrieved July 11, 2011.
  28. ^ "Messer defeats Bookout, wins Pence's 6th seat". San Francisco Chronicle. Associated Press. November 6, 2012. Retrieved November 7, 2012.
  29. ^ "Rep. Luke Messer: Campaign Finance/Money - Top Donors - Representative Career | OpenSecrets". www.opensecrets.org. Retrieved June 28, 2017.
  30. ^ "Former state lawmaker announces run for Congress". Los Angeles Times. May 21, 2011. Archived from the original on December 21, 2013. Retrieved January 17, 2013.
  31. ^ "Messer conquers crowded Republican field in 6th District". indystar.com. May 8, 2012. Retrieved January 17, 2013.
  32. ^ "Bookout to face 'young gun' Messer in race for U.S. Congress seat | The Star Press". thestarpress.com. Archived from the original on June 7, 2012. Retrieved June 3, 2012.
  33. ^ "Messer, Bookout win vote in Delaware County for U.S. Congress seat | The Star Press". thestarpress.com. Retrieved June 3, 2012.[permanent dead link]
  34. ^ Johannesen, Kirk (November 7, 2012). "Messer puts focus on jobs, budget work". The Republic. Archived from the original on May 18, 2015. Retrieved November 7, 2012.
  35. ^ a b "Mr. Messer goes to Washington". Madison Courier. Retrieved July 5, 2017.
  36. ^ "Committees and Caucuses | Congressman Luke Messer". Archived from the original on April 6, 2017. Retrieved May 19, 2017.
  37. ^ "Our Members". U.S. House of Representatives International Conservation Caucus. Archived from the original on August 1, 2018. Retrieved August 4, 2018.
  38. ^ Fuller, Matt (November 13, 2014). "Indiana's Messer Wins Republican Policy Committee Gavel (Updated)". Retrieved October 5, 2017 – via www.rollcall.com.
  39. ^ a b "Messer has allies in push to expand school choice". USA Today. Retrieved July 25, 2017.
  40. ^ Greenwood, Max (May 2, 2018). "18 House Republicans nominate Trump for Nobel Peace Prize". The Hill. Retrieved May 2, 2018.
  41. ^ "6th District Candidates Compare Themselves To Mike Pence". WFIU. October 29, 2012. Archived from the original on December 13, 2013. Retrieved February 11, 2021.
  42. ^ a b "Luke Messer on Abortion". On The Issues. Retrieved December 28, 2017.
  43. ^ a b "Luke Messer on Civil Rights". On The Issues. Retrieved December 28, 2017.
  44. ^ a b "Luke Messer on Budget & Economy". On The Issues. Retrieved December 28, 2017.
  45. ^ "Rep. Luke Messer: GOP Tax plan will create more jobs and bigger paychecks". CNBC. November 2, 2017. Retrieved December 4, 2017.
  46. ^ "An Unusual Feat in Congress: Student Loan Bill Breezes On". The New York Times. July 31, 2013. Retrieved July 25, 2017.
  47. ^ a b "A New Way To Pay For College Gets A Boost In Congress". Forbes. July 6, 2017. Retrieved July 25, 2017.
  48. ^ "Bill would make IU student debt initiative a nationwide requirement". The Bloomington Herald Times. March 18, 2017. Retrieved July 25, 2017.
  49. ^ "Bipartisan Solution". Inside Higher Ed. October 31, 2016. Retrieved July 25, 2017.
  50. ^ a b Wiechmann, Stephanie (May 4, 2017). "Congressman Messer Votes For AHCA As Healthcare Plan Passes House". Indiana Public Radio. Retrieved December 28, 2017.
  51. ^ "GOP rep urges Trump to prevent illegal immigrants from claiming child tax credits". The Hill. February 13, 2017. Retrieved July 25, 2017.
  52. ^ DePillis, Lydia. "How the GOP tax bills hurt undocumented immigrants". CNNMoney. Retrieved December 4, 2017.
  53. ^ "The proposal was included in President Donald Trump's 2018 budget request to Congress". WSCH. May 24, 2017. Archived from the original on October 17, 2017. Retrieved July 25, 2017.
  54. ^ a b "House working group to unveil immigration plan". msnbc.com. April 8, 2013. Retrieved June 26, 2017.
  55. ^ Immigration deal in sight, retrieved July 13, 2017
  56. ^ Patrick, Rebecca (July 2013). "Popular Newcomer Eyes Progress" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on September 24, 2015.
  57. ^ "Obama Puts Spotlight on Immigration Reform". VOA. Retrieved June 26, 2017.
  58. ^ Blake, Aaron (January 29, 2017). "Coffman, Gardner join Republicans against President Trump's travel ban; here's where the rest stand". Denver Post. Retrieved January 30, 2017.
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Indiana House of Representatives
Preceded by Member of the Indiana House of Representatives
from the 57th district

2003–2006
Succeeded by
U.S. House of Representatives
Preceded by Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Indiana's 6th congressional district

2013–2019
Succeeded by
Party political offices
Preceded by Chair of the House Republican Policy Committee
2015–2019
Succeeded by
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
Preceded byas Former US Representative Order of precedence of the United States
as Former US Representative
Succeeded byas Former US Representative