Indiana Governor Mike Braun fires Utility Commissioner Andy Zay over alleged policy violations

Governor Mike Braun dismissed Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) Commissioner Andy Zay on August 3, 2026, six weeks after Zay voted to approve a $71 million rate increase for AES Indiana. The governor cited multiple alleged violations, including failure to file a required financial disclosure after his removal as chair, awarding improper payments and personal gifts to employees, and directing staff to alter a public‑meeting agenda without consulting the new chair.

Braun said Zay had not focused on affordability and utility accountability, and that a replacement would be sought promptly. Zay declined to comment. State agencies have not opened criminal investigations; the Indiana State Police say they are not investigating, and the Office of Inspector General declined to confirm any probe. Democratic Party Chair Karen Tallian accused Braun of using Zay as a scapegoat and criticized the governor’s handling of utility regulation.