In 1943, Indiana Attorney GeneralJames Emmert appointed Foust (a Republican) to the office of Deputy Attorney General. In 1945, Foust became First Deputy AG. In 1947, Emmert resigned as Attorney General after being elected to serve on the Indiana Supreme Court. GovernorRalph F. Gates appointed Foust to the office of Attorney General in 1947 to serve out the rest of Emmert's term. Foust ran for re-election in 1948, but lost to Democrat J. Emmett McManamon.[4][5]
After serving as Attorney General, Foust continued to teach at the Indiana University School of Law – Indianapolis. In 1967, Foust became the law school's Dean, succeeding Ben F. Small.[6] He resigned as Dean in 1973.[7] He was succeeded by William F. Harvey.[8][9][2]