Indiana Gov. Braun Faces Campaign Over Highest Utility Bills in Two Decades

Indiana Governor Mike Braun is facing criticism from consumer advocates, particularly the Citizens Action Coalition (CAC), for rising utility costs in the state, with the group launching the "Stop Mike's Hikes" campaign to pressure him to address high electricity bills and change energy policies that favor coal, gas, and nuclear power. The CAC reports significant monthly increases in electricity bills, especially for NIPSCO customers, and calls for more support of renewable energy and fairer contributions from large energy consumers. In response, Braun has appointed three new members to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission's (IURC) nominating committee—Secretary of Energy Suzie Jaworowski, former state Rep. Dollyne Sherman, and business executive Cory Cochran—to influence utility regulation with a focus on balancing energy needs with ratepayer affordability. Braun emphasizes the importance of protecting Hoosier families from overwhelming rate hikes while ensuring reliable utility services and has opened applications for full-time IURC commissioner vacancies, seeking candidates with experience and fairness. The governor highlighted the role of the Utility Consumer Counselor, Abby Gray, who recommended rejecting a major rate increase proposed by Indiana's largest utility provider, AES. Overall, Braun aims to reshape the IURC to better address utility rates amid public calls for relief and increased oversight.