INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Gov. Mike Braun announced a special legislative session set for Nov. 3 to redraw congressional boundaries amid pressure to bolster Republican seats.
Braun’s decision follows President Donald Trump’s push for more winnable districts, as Republicans in other states have moved quickly on redistricting. However, Indiana lawmakers have hesitated.
Braun stated, “I am calling a special legislative session to protect Hoosiers from efforts in other states that seek to diminish their voice in Washington.”
Vice President JD Vance and Trump have been actively engaging with Indiana lawmakers. Vance met with Braun in Indianapolis on Oct. 10 to discuss the redistricting efforts.
Despite the push, a spokesperson for Indiana Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray indicated the Senate lacked the votes to pass a new map. More than a dozen of the 40 Republican senators oppose the midcycle redistricting.
Democratic Leader Shelli Yoder criticized the move, stating, “This is not democracy. This is desperation.”
Indiana’s Republicans hold a supermajority, limiting Democratic influence. Yet, some Republicans worry midcycle redistricting could backfire politically.
The GOP aims to target Indiana’s 1st Congressional District, a Democratic stronghold near Chicago, and potentially Indiana’s 7th District in Marion County. However, the latter could be controversial.
Democratic U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, representing the 1st District, emphasized, “I believe that representation should be earned through ideas and service, not political manipulation.”
As redistricting battles unfold nationwide, Indiana’s session will be closely watched.
