Gov. Braun Seeks Fourth IURC Appointment After Seven Months of Shifts

Gov. Mike Braun is seeking to fill an upcoming vacancy on the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission after commissioner David Veleta resigned effective Aug. 31, 2026, or sooner if replaced. Veleta's departure gives Braun a fourth appointment to the five-member commission since December.

The Path Through Three Prior Appointments

Braun appointed three new IURC commissioners in December 2025: Andy Zay, Bob Deig, and Anthony Swinger. Those selections marked the start of a series of personnel moves on the commission that oversees utility rates across the state. The three appointments shifted the makeup of the body that regulates electric, gas, water and other utility services for Indiana residents and businesses.

Leadership Adjustment in Mid-2026

Braun later removed Andy Zay as IURC chairman in June 2026 and named Anthony Swinger as chairman, while Zay remained on the commission. This change occurred after the December appointments and preceded the announcement of Veleta's resignation. The move consolidated the governor's influence over the commission's direction through successive personnel decisions.

Application Timeline and Local Interviews

The governor's office said IURC commissioner applications were due July 7, 2026, with interviews scheduled in Indianapolis on July 16, 2026. These steps followed directly from Veleta's resignation notice and represent the process for selecting the fourth new member since the December 2025 round of appointments. The interviews are set to take place in the state capital where the IURC conducts its work.

Implications for the Five-Member Commission

With four appointments now tied to the current governor since December, the commission's composition reflects ongoing turnover. The five-member body continues to handle matters such as rate cases and regulatory oversight while the selection process for the newest member proceeds. Local reporting has noted that Veleta's exit creates the opportunity for this latest appointment.

Next Steps in the Selection Process

Following the July 16 interviews in Indianapolis, the governor's office is expected to move forward with naming a replacement to complete the fourth appointment since December. The commission will then operate with its updated membership as it addresses pending regulatory matters. Residents and stakeholders can monitor announcements from the governor's office for updates on the appointment.