Porter County Prosecutor Race: Germann Leads Over Bennett

Porter County Prosecutor Gary Germann is leading over Republican challenger Andrew Bennett according to preliminary vote totals on Tuesday night. Germann, a 78-year-old Democrat, initially served his first four-year term after being elected in 1978 before transitioning to private practice. His current tenure began with the 2018 election.

Unofficial returns indicate Germann’s lead at 53.34% with all precincts counted. He chose not to comment until additional returns were received. The county election board will confirm the results on November 13.

Andrew Bennett, age 55, aimed to emulate Germann’s return to public office after years in private practice. Bennett expressed his motivation, stating, “I am running because I didn’t want to leave in the first place.” Bennett brings 16 years of experience as an assistant county prosecutor, including 13 and a half years serving as a Porter County deputy prosecutor prior to leaving in 2014 for private practice.

This election marks Bennett’s initial attempt at securing political office. Despite his respect for Germann, whom he called one of the top trial attorneys in Northwest Indiana, Bennett believed he could introduce a fresh perspective to the role. Bennett was unavailable for comment on Tuesday night.

Germann has previously remarked on changes under his leadership, noting improvements in the office culture. He expressed his enthusiasm for the position, saying, “I love the job. It’s super-challenging and we have a great staff.”

Jim Woods, a freelance reporter, covered this update for the Post-Tribune.