Michael sworn in to Dist. 44 seat, ready to take action

Nancy Michael [Click to enlarge]

Michael, who defeated incumbent and Brazil native Amos Thomas in the Nov. 4 General Election -- for State Representative District 44 -- was officially sworn in to the position Nov. 18, at the statehouse.

"The moment that it really hit me was the day after the election on Nov. 5," Michael told The Brazil Times recently. "There was actually a Caucus meeting and I have driven into Indianapolis 100 times, but on that particular day, it was different.

"This would be where most of my time would be spent over the next two years. It was a feeling that I'll never forget."

Michael explained the state swears in senators and representatives earlier than it does other state office holders, including the governor.

"It was a very ceremonial, very parliamentary kind of swearing in," she said. "That was a very big honor for me.

"I think the difference is as you sit there in the room in the house chamber, you realize what an honor it is. And to be in a position to make impacts on people's lives across the state, you realize it's an enormous responsibility and an honor and a responsibility to serve your state."

The former Greencastle mayor said she's prepared to begin the learning process.

"Obviously, there are a lot of bills," Michael said. "It's important to get those going."

Michael said the first session of the new year begins at 1 p.m., Jan. 7. Before the session, however, she said she plans on getting with people in her elected area to find out what they are focused on.

"Between now and then over the next six weeks, I am meeting with constituents and organizational groups with what they are concerned with so that I am up to speed," she said. "Obviously, the laws that I will be involved in are going to directly impact the citizens of our community and local governments. That is something that I am very passionate about."

Michael said she is concerned about the "fairness" of the current tax bill in addition to looking for ways to fund transportation.

She added she's hoping to get some family time before the session begins. Her daughter is currently a senior at Greencastle High School.

"Over the next six weeks, my family is my priority," she said. "We've obviously spent the last six months on the campaign trail.

"I know, come the beginning of the year, there will be moments where I'll be busier than I probably wish I was. But I don't plan on missing any of Mary's events."