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2 clusters · 2 sources · 13 days · First seen · Last updated

Indiana utility commission turnover

Overview

In late July 2026, Governor Mike Braun appointed Joby Jerrells to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, emphasizing the goal of keeping utility costs affordable for residents. Jerrells brought experience from the state Attorney General’s office and prior federal ethics roles.

A few weeks later, in early August, Braun dismissed Commissioner Andy Zay after Zay had voted to approve a $71 million rate increase for AES Indiana. Braun cited alleged policy violations, including missing financial disclosures and improper handling of gifts and agenda changes, and argued that Zay had not prioritized affordability. The firing sparked criticism from state Democrats, who accused the governor of using Zay as a scapegoat. No criminal investigations were launched, and a replacement for Zay was promised.

These actions reflect Braun’s rapid reshaping of the commission amid controversy over utility rate hikes and a focus on accountability and affordability.

Entities

Mike Braun · Karen Tallian · Andy Zay · AES Indiana · Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission

Timeline

  1. 9 days ago

    [POLITICS] 2 sources
    Indiana Governor Mike Braun fires Utility Commissioner Andy Zay over alleged policy violations

    Indiana Gov. Mike Braun fired Utility Commissioner Andy Zay on Aug 3, citing alleged policy breaches after Zay backed a $71 million AES rate hike; investigations are pending and critics call it a scapegoat move

  2. 22 days ago

    [POLITICS] 3 sources
    Indiana Gov. Mike Braun appoints Joby Jerrells to utility regulatory commission

    Indiana Gov. Mike Braun appointed Joby Jerrells, former chief counsel of the state Attorney General’s office, to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, emphasizing affordable utility rates.

Sources

indianapublicradio.org · wishtv.com