Mark Messmer Secures Indiana GOP Nomination Amid Pro-Israel PAC Influence

Pro-Israel groups played a pivotal role in the Indiana primary, leading to John Hostettler's defeat and Mark Messmer's nomination.

John Hostettler, criticized for his stance on Israel and past antisemitic remarks, loses to Mark Messmer in Indiana's GOP primary.
Pro-Israel super PACs, including the United Democracy Project, invested heavily in the race, spending over $1.6 million against Hostettler.
Messmer, who out-raised Hostettler nearly 19-to-1, is now the favorite to win the heavily Republican district in November.
The influence of pro-Israel groups marks a significant shift in their engagement in Republican primaries, traditionally focusing more on Democratic races.
Hostettler's defeat reflects broader Republican Party dynamics, where foreign policy positions are becoming increasingly pivotal in primary outcomes.