Brad Ellsworth
With over two decades of experience in the local Sheriff’s office, Brad Ellsworth has spent his entire career protecting the people and communities of Indiana. During his brief time as the 8th District’s Congressman, Brad has developed a reputation as an independent voice and effective problem-solver for Hoosiers.
Brad was born and spent his early years in Huntingburg, Indiana. When he was still in grade school, his family moved to Evansville where his father worked in Warrick County’s Alcoa plant. His mother stayed home to raise Brad and his brothers and sister.
Brad received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Southern Indiana (formerly Indiana State University-Evansville). He worked in the paint and hardware department at Sears while in school to pay for his education. He later received a Masters Degree in Criminology from Indiana State University.
In 1982, Brad began his career in the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s office. Over the next 24 years, he held every merit rank, and was twice decorated for heroism in the line of duty.
In 1998, Brad ran for Sheriff and won in a landslide victory. He was unopposed running for a second term.
As Sheriff, he started the state’s most comprehensive website to track and monitor sexual offenders. He also worked hard to expand jail facilities, on time and under budget, to keep criminals behind bars.
Brad has represented the 8th Congressional District since 2007, and currently serves on the House Agriculture, Armed Services, and Small Business Committees. During his brief time in office, he has put his experiences as Sheriff to work solving problems, resolving disputes, and working to change the way Washington works. Brad is focused on creating an environment that encourages Indiana businesses to grow and hire, supporting efforts to restore fiscal accountability, cutting taxes for Hoosier families and businesses, and making significant investments in health care and educational opportunities for our brave veterans.
Brad and his wife, Beth, reside in Evansville, Indiana. They have a daughter, Andrea, who teaches special needs children in a Chicago public school and is looking forward to teaching in Indianapolis next Fall. The family attends St. Agnes Catholic Church.