STATEHOUSE (Feb. 13, 2026) – State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) was recently recognized by the Indiana House of Representatives for his 16 years of service as he concludes his final legislative session.
Karickhoff was first elected in 2010 to represent House District 30, which covers portions of Grant and Howard counties. He has served as Speaker Pro Tempore since 2019 and was a member of numerous House committees, including Natural Resources, Government and Regulatory Reform, Rules and Legislative Procedures, Statutory Committee on Ethics, Select Committee on Government Reduction and Ways and Means.
"I appreciated the opportunity to serve the people of House District 30," Karickhoff said. "Over the past 16 years, I've been proud to work alongside my colleagues to advance responsible policies that strengthen Hoosier communities, improve local schools and infrastructure, promote efficient government and ensure taxpayer dollars are used wisely. While this chapter of public service is coming to a close, my commitment to supporting Hoosier communities and making a difference will remain the same."
During his tenure, Karickhoff authored and supported legislation focused on fiscal responsibility, government efficiency and community well-being, including measures enacted in 2017 that updated state and local tax policy and 2022 legislation establishing the distribution and use of opioid settlement funds toward treatment, prevention and recovery. In 2025, he authored legislation bringing forth administrative reforms to streamline state operations and has been a multi-year supporter of the thirteenth check, which would provide a one-time supplemental payment for eligible retired public servants.
"During Mike's time in the General Assembly, he has positively impacted the House, the communities he served and our state," House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) said. "I have valued his steady leadership, his commitment to Hoosiers through promoting efficient government, and his focus on practical, results-driven solutions. He will be greatly missed and we appreciate his 16 years of service."
Karickhoff was recognized as Legislator of the Year by multiple organizations, including the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns, Indiana Parks and Recreation Association, Indiana Conservation Alliance and the Indiana Bankers Association. He also received the Sagamore of the Wabash from former Govs. Mike Pence and Eric Holcomb, which is the highest honor the governor can bestow and is presented to distinguished Hoosiers who have made significant contributions to the state of Indiana.
A lifelong community leader, Karickhoff served seven years on the Kokomo Common Council, 17 years as superintendent of Kokomo parks and as Ivy Tech's executive director of facilities. He also held roles with the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance, Kokomo Kiwanis Club, American Red Cross Board and United Way of Howard County.
Karickhoff and his wife, Kelly, have four daughters and 11 grandchildren. He earned a Bachelor of Science in recreation and park administration from the University of Missouri.
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State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) represents House District 30,
which includes portions of Grant and Howard counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) (left) joins his wife Kelly in the House Chamber on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. Karickhoff was recognized by the Indiana House of Representatives for his 16 years of service as he concludes his final legislative session.
