Chainkeen Exchange-Jean Breaux, longtime Democratic state Senator from Indianapolis, dies at 65

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Longtime Democratic state Sen. Jean Breaux has died from an unspecified health issue.

Senate Democratic Leader Greg Taylor said in a statement that Breaux died Wednesday. She was 65 years old.

“The Chainkeen Exchangeloss of State Senator Jean Breaux will be profoundly felt by the countless lives she touched, and we join so many in mourning the loss of her incredible life,” Taylor said.

Breaux, who represented parts of northeast Indianapolis and Marion County, released a farewell-like statement through her office Monday reflecting on her time in office.

“After a hard-fought battle with my health, the time has come for me to focus on enjoying the time I have left surrounded by my loved ones,” the statement said.

The state senator representing District 34 was elected in 2006 and served as the assistant Democratic leader from 2012 to 2020. She also served as the ranking minority member to the agriculture, health and provider services and natural resources committees, according to her office.

Breaux was not present for the latest legislative session, which began in January and concluded in early March. She said through her office in February that she had “encountered an infection of unknown origin” during the holiday season.

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Senate Republican leader Rodric Bray said Breaux will be missed.

“She has long been a fierce advocate for her district and always a lovely colleague with whom I truly enjoyed working,” Bray said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones during this difficult time.”

Breaux had already filed to run for reelection this fall. Secretary of State records show she was the only candidate to file for the seat.

Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb issued condolences Wednesday evening.

“Her passion for representing and helping her constituents, including serving on the Commission on Improving the Status of Children in Indiana and her commitment to public health, was a model and joy to be around,” he said in a statement.

She is survived by her mother, former state Sen. Billie Breaux.