January 1, Indiana Pushes for Fair Congressional Maps

Wyatt’s Take

• Indiana’s governor calls a special session to protect voters’ voices in Congress.
• Redistricting battles rage nationwide as Democrats use maps to their advantage.
• Heartland states are pushing back against unfair tactics to defend their values.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun called a special legislative session to redraw the state’s congressional map. He says this will make sure Hoosiers get fair representation in Congress and update the tax code for future filings.

“I am calling a special legislative session to protect Hoosiers from efforts in other states that seek to diminish their voice in Washington and ensure their representation in Congress is fair,” Braun said.

With Republicans holding seven out of nine seats, some leaders argue that Indiana’s delegation doesn’t match the way the state votes. They look to places like Massachusetts, where Republicans have no representation despite thousands who vote conservative.

Democrats have drawn maps in states like Massachusetts, Illinois, and Connecticut to keep Republicans out. Even though around 40% of voters there picked Trump in 2024, they have no Republican representation.

California is also looking to change its maps after Texas moved to gain more Republican seats. Proposition 50 will give California lawmakers the chance to redraw lines to counter Republican gains elsewhere.

State Senator Liz Brown warned, “Now we have every indication that California’s upcoming vote will further disenfranchise Republican voices, not only in that state but more importantly in Washington. Their actions could allow up to half a dozen Republican seats to flip Democrat, thus further hurting our conservative representation in Washington.”

Some Indiana lawmakers are concerned that including illegal immigrants in Census numbers lets blue states grab more House seats. State Rep. Matt Commons said, “You know, they’re going to pack in illegal immigrants into those districts, and they’re going to rob congressional seats and congressional apportionment from not only the United States as a whole and other states, but also from the rural parts of their state.”

Congressman Marlin Stutzman stressed that Indiana must act: “If we don’t redistrict in Indiana, we’re going to be in the minority, then we can’t affect the real policy that affects the country.”

The White House has also reportedly shown interest in encouraging Indiana to adjust its maps, as the debate about who gets a fair voice in Washington grows hotter.

Now is the time for states like Indiana to fight for a system that truly reflects the will of the people. Stay plugged in with us as this battle over fair maps unfolds across America’s heartland.

Wyatt Matters

Honest representation is a foundation of American life. When political maps are drawn to shut out hard-working heartland voices, the country suffers. Standing firm to protect fair elections keeps our families and communities strong.

Read more at The Federalist