Indiana leaders express sympathies at death of US Rep. Jim Baird’s wife

Condolences have been pouring in following the death of U.S. Rep. Jim Baird’s wife, nearly two months after she was injured in a car crash.

Danise Baird died from complications related to injuries she suffered in the Jan. 5 crash, the congressman’s office announced Sunday.

“Congressman Baird and Danise were married for 59 years, building a life centered on faith, family and service,” Baird’s office said. “A devoted wife and loving mother of three children, she was the foundation of their family and will be greatly missed. We ask that you keep the Congressman and his family in your prayers during this difficult time.”

Gov. Mike Braun was among many state leaders who expressed sympathy to the Baird family.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Congressman Baird and his family as they mourn this devastating loss,” the governor said on social media.

Jim Baird, 80, and Danise Baird were both initially hospitalized for injuries caused by the crash that occurred while they were returning to Washington. The congressman was released the next day, but then wore a neck brace for some time.

Danise Baird was released from the hospital on January 12 and continued to recover, her husband said on social media.

Their son, state Rep. Beau Baird, posted on Feb. 1 that his mother had taken her first assisted steps and that while the family was hopeful, “we know there is still a ways to go.”

Danise was Jim Baird’s “high school sweetheart,” according to the biography posted on his congressional office website. The couple had three children.

Baird, a Republican, was a Putnam County commissioner and a member of the Indiana House of Representatives before being first elected to western Indiana’s 4th Congressional District in 2018.

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, who preceded Baird to the congressional seat, called Danise Baird’s death a “Absolutely horrible news.

“I am so sorry for your loss,” Rokita said on social media. “Thoughts and prayers with you, Congressman, and all who loved Danise.”

Democratic U.S. Rep. Andre Carson posted “So sorry to hear of the loss of Danise Baird. Praying for Rep. Baird and the entire family as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.”