State Representative Bob Cherry has had the opportunity to serve the State of Indiana in many ways since being elected as State Representative for House District 53. Currently, he holds one of the top positions in the House of Representatives by serving as the Assistant Majority Caucus Chair. He sits on the Technology, Research, and Development Committee along with the fiscal committee, Ways and Means.

He became a member of the General Assembly in 1998 after developing an interest in public policy and a desire to represent the people of District 53.

During the 2006 legislative session, Representative Cherry co-authored House Enrolled Act 1010 (HEA 1010), which places further limits on governments that want to use eminent domain to obtain property. HEA 1010 protects property owners’ rights by more clearly defining the requirements for property acquisition.

Representative Cherry values community involvement and stays active in Hancock County and beyond. He served as a Hancock County Councilman and is a former member of both the Hancock County Planning Commission and Greenfield Board of Zoning Appeals. He was appointed by the governor to the State Board of Tax Commissioners and is the past Chairman of the Agricultural Advisory Council. He is a member of the Elks, Kiwanis Club, Masonic Lodge, Murat Shrine, and Farm Bureau. In August of 2007, Representative Cherry received a 33rd Degree in Scottish Rite. Representative Cherry is also a former IHSSA Official.

He has received numerous “Legislator of the Year” awards from various organizations, including the Credit Unions, Small Businesses, and the Conservation Officers. Rep. Cherry was also the recipient of the outstanding Purdue Alumni in Animal Science in 2007. In the summer of 2006, Representative Cherry attended the Bowhay Institute for Legislative Leadership Development conference and received an invitation to attend the next conference in Madison, WI.

He received his B.S. from Purdue University and remains involved in Boilermaker activities.

Rep. Cherry married Deborah Tilley on October 30th, 2006. He has five grown children, Keegan, Kevin, Kathee, Stephanie, and Jared. He also has 6 granddaughters, 2 grandsons. Representative Cherry is a member of Willow Branch United Methodist Church. He and Deb live and work on their family farm in Greenfield.