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Four years ago, Republican Brian Bosma, of Indianapolis, became minority leader of the Indiana House. Now, he's the incoming speaker of the House after Republicans on Tuesday seized control of the chamber, 52-48.

1. How big of a priority will it be for Republicans to push for a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage?

That issue will receive the same attention that other important legislative issues will during the coming session. We were not given the opportunity to discuss the issue this year. We will have the opportunity to do so this time. But our priorities will be job creation and balancing the state budget.

2. What is your advice to outgoing House Speaker B. Patrick Bauer, who will now be in the minority?

First of all, don't be disheartened. Don't think you will be put out of the process.

3. Currently, House members can vote in committees by proxy, without being present. You've talked about doing away with this method of voting. How serious are you about this?

For many years, House committees have operated with only a few members present and a handful of proxy votes. We will be bringing that practice to an end.

4. You've coached your son and daughter in basketball. Any lessons you can take from that and apply to your new job? And how are you going to prevent the newfound power from going to your head?

I've coached winning leagues and losing leagues. In one of my daughter's leagues, we lost every time, and at the end of the year, we managed to tie the last game. The kids were jumping up and down screaming: "We didn't lose. We didn't lose." It was like they won the NBA finals. What I learned from that is you have to keep things in perspective. It's my wife who keeps my footing firmly on the ground. All I can do is lead with excellence, not with perfection.

5. You have degrees from both Indiana University and Purdue University. Who do you root for in sports matchups?

I'm a Purdue engineer turned IU lawyer. When I announced that to my family of Purdue grads, my dad said he'd better stop talking poorly about lawyers. I don't think he did. I cheer for both teams when they play separately, but when they play each other, I bleed black and gold.

Michele McNeil

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