Congressman Luke Messer, a Republican representing Indiana’s Sixth Congressional District, spoke to Southside Elementary students Friday morning. The Congressman was working on little sleep after an early-morning vote to end a short government shutdown.

The Congressman spoke with fourth graders for about 45 minutes, answering questions and talking about how Congress works. Messer says this is one particular part of his job that he truly enjoys.

Messer’s visit capped off a morning with local constituents. From there, it was time to campaign for the U.S. Senate…

Messer says the dysfunction in the Senate goes beyond some members.

Messer is in a primary battle with fellow Republican Congressman Toff Rokita and businessman Mike Braun for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate. The winner of the primary will face Democratic incumbent Joe Donnelly in what is expected to be a very tight race.