GOP caucus picks attorney general aide as new state senator

NOBLESVILLE, Ind. (AP) - A top staffer in the Indiana attorney general's office will fill the legislative seat being given up by the state Senate's budget leader.

Republican precinct officials elected Victoria Spartz during a Wednesday night caucus to replace Sen. Luke Kenley of Noblesville when he retires at the end of September. Spartz won 54-39 in the sixth ballot over Noblesville City Council President Megan Wiles, whom Kenley had endorsed.

Spartz is now the chief financial officer under Republican Attorney General Curtis Hill. The 38-year-old Spartz says she grew up in Ukraine before moving to the United States 17 years ago.

Kenley announced his retirement in July, and Spartz will complete the three years left in his Senate term.

Sen. Ryan Mishler of Bremen is replacing Kenley as Senate Appropriations Committee chairman.