Hunter Smith, a former Indianapolis Colts punter and member of the Super Bowl champion Colts team in the 2006 season, has thrown his hat into the political arena. In a recent news release, Smith announced his candidacy for the position of Indiana State Representative for District 24, running as a Republican.
A fixture in Indiana since 1995, Smith brings not only a background in professional football but also a commitment to community and sustainable agriculture. Together with his family, he owns and operates WonderTree Farm in Zionsville, described as a “regenerative source of local food and culture.” The farm emphasizes creative, natural methods to enhance the well-being of people, land, and animals.
In his official statement, Smith expressed his dedication to serving the constituents of District 24 with principled and constituent-centered leadership.
A graduate of the University of Notre Dame in 1999, Smith played for the Colts from 1999 to 2008 before spending an additional two years with the Washington Redskins. Smith’s transition from professional sports to farming, music, and now politics underscores his diverse background.
Top Priority for Hunter Smith
Smith outlined his top priority as environmental issues, ranging from conservation to farming practices and food production. His own farm is dedicated to “regenerative” farming, aiming to enhance soil health and sequester carbon. In addressing the environment, Smith views it as a missed opportunity for conservatives, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach beyond industry-centric solutions.
Despite his conservative stance, Smith stressed the importance of bipartisanship, balance, and dialogue. While declaring himself a “pro-life conservative” and supporter of school choice, he noted that his children have received education through various channels, including public, private, and home schooling.
Smith’s entry into the political arena has not been without controversy. The Indiana Democratic Party swiftly criticized him, labeling him an “anti-civil rights extremist” due to his affiliation with an anti-gay Christian nonprofit. In response, Smith defended himself, asserting that such labels were an impediment to constructive dialogue and called for a more mature approach to political discourse.
The race for House District 24 includes other candidates, such as Democrat attorney Josh Lowry, who filed his statement of organization in June 2022, and Republican Bill Gutrich, who entered the race in October of 2023. The seat became open following the decision of Rep. Donna Schaibley, R-Carmel, to not seek reelection in 2024 after nearly a decade in office.