Ellspermann to resign on March 2

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Indiana Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann will step down from office early next month, clearing the way for a much anticipated shake-up to Gov. Mike Pence’s re-election effort.

Pence’s office confirmed Thursday that Ellspermann’s resignation will be effective March 2 at 5 p.m. The Republican governor’s chosen replacement, former Indiana GOP Chairman Eric Holcomb, is expected to be confirmed by state lawmakers the following day.

Ellspermann signaled her intent to resign in December, when she announced interest in pursuing the open position of president of Ivy Tech Community College, which she has since applied for.

Pence’s selection of Holcomb was announced last week, bringing a close to Holcomb’s is 11-month campaign for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by retiring GOP Sen. Dan Coats.