Eric Thiel announces candidacy in District 26

TIPPECANOE CO., Ind. (WLFI) - Eric Thiel has announced his candidacy as a Democrat in House District 26, a seat currently held by Republican Randy Truitt.

He's a computer systems administrator at Purdue and a resident of Tippecanoe County home.  

It's his first run for public office.

If elected, he wants to approach issues with what he calls a "what works" approach, instead of a partisan attitude.

He would like to see new laws have a sunset provision, so if they don't work, they expire.

He opposes the recent right to work laws but also the legislative walk-outs House Democrats engaged in.  He also opposes a ban on same-sex marriage and the defunding of Planned Parenthood.  He said he wants to demonstrate it's possible for an average citizen to run and will do it as a virtually unfunded candidate.

"I've limited my contributions," Thiel said.  "I don't want to take money except from individuals in the district.  I won't take any more than $50.  I think I can run a campaign that way.  I think I can run a serious campaign using personal contact and social media."

He's and his wife Janice of 42 years have three adult children.

Thiel will be running against former city councilman Rick Cornstuble in May's Democratic primary.

The winner will face Truitt in November.