On Thursday, Indiana state senators will make a crucial decision regarding the future of a Republican-drawn congressional map, a move that has sparked considerable controversy and debate. This decision comes after a prolonged clash between GOP lawmakers and former President Donald Trump, who has been vocal in urging lawmakers to proceed with the redistricting efforts. The proposed map, which was passed by the state House last week, aims to dismantle Indiana's two Democratic-held districts, marking a significant step in Trump's national campaign to bolster the GOP's slim majority in the upcoming midterm elections.
While Republican lawmakers in states like Texas, North Carolina, and Missouri have already taken action to pass new maps aimed at gaining additional seats for the party, Indiana's legislators have shown reluctance to engage in this unprecedented mid-decade redistricting battle. Republican leaders in the Indiana Senate have consistently stated that there are not enough votes in the chamber to pass the legislation, despite ongoing pressure from the White House and Trump himself.
Trump, alongside Vice President JD Vance and other national Republican figures, has been actively pressuring Indiana lawmakers through various channels, including phone calls, in-person visits, and social media engagements. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump specifically targeted Rodric Bray, the Republican leader of the state Senate, warning that any vote against the redistricting effort would lead to primary challenges in the upcoming spring elections. “Rod Bray and his friends won’t be in Politics for long…” Trump asserted, highlighting the stakes involved in the vote.
According to a senior GOP leadership source, the upcoming vote is expected to be close, with at least 20 solid "yes" votes confirmed. However, Republicans will need the backing of at least 25 members from the 50-person Legislature for the map to pass. The state’s Republican Lt. Governor, Micah Beckwith, holds the power to break any ties that may arise during the voting process.
The situation has escalated alarmingly, with over 11 elected Republicans in Indiana reportedly facing violent threats and swatting attempts. Such threats involve false police reports aimed at provoking frightening law enforcement responses. Sen. Michael Crider, the Republican majority whip, revealed he has received multiple threats, including alarming messages suggesting violent retribution. Despite these threats, Crider remains committed to voting against the bill, emphasizing the need for safety measures among his colleagues.
Similarly, Sen. Dan Dernulc, who has also opposed the legislation, shared his own experiences with intimidation, including receiving a pipe bomb threat that particularly distressed his family. He noted that police have increased their presence outside his home due to the threats he has faced. “It doesn’t affect the way I’m going to vote,” Dernulc stated, highlighting the unnerving nature of the situation.
Another Republican senator, Greg Goode, who has been named by Trump in social media posts, also fell victim to a swatting attempt. In a disturbing incident, law enforcement responded to a false report claiming he had harmed his family. Fortunately, Goode was home at the time and expressed gratitude for his safety. He remarked that he is still considering his vote but intends to keep an open mind as the debate unfolds.
The redistricting bill recently passed through the Senate Elections Committee after extensive debate and public testimony, much of which opposed the proposed map. Sen. Mike Gaskill, the bill's sponsor, acknowledged the contentious nature of the fight, stating that political gerrymandering is uncomfortable but necessary in the current political climate. He emphasized that the redistricting effort is a small but significant part of rebalancing power on a national level.
As the vote approaches, many lawmakers appear weary from the prolonged political struggle. Some had initially believed that Bray's announcement regarding lack of support would conclude the matter. However, there is a growing sense of urgency among various stakeholders, including environmental groups like Indiana Conservation Voters, who have mobilized against the redistricting bill. They recognize that a vote is essential to bring closure to this contentious issue.