Indiana's redistricting bill author says it's all about politics
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State Rep. Ben Smaltz, center, introducing the redistricting bill in committee Tuesday. Photo: Arika Herron/Axios
An Indiana House committee moved the state's redistricting bill forward Tuesday over the opposition of the majority of Hoosiers and those concerned that the measure would disenfranchise people of color.
The big picture: After more than five hours of testimony that largely railed against House Bill 1032, the House's Elections and Apportionment Committee voted 8-5 to pass the bill to the floor.
- The committee's four Democrats opposed the measure, as did Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton).
State of play: Under the House's proposed congressional map, Marion County would be divided among four districts — the 4th, 6th, 7th and 9th.
- Currently, the northern two-thirds of Marion County is the entirety of the 7th District — represented by Democratic U.S. Rep. André Carson, the only person of color in Indiana's congressional delegation — and the southern third is part of the 6th.
- Many organizations and activists raised concerns about how the dividing of Marion County would affect minority voters, who make up about 40% of the state's most populous county.
What they're saying: "I don't care if it was your intent," Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) told the committee. "The impact of this bill will be crippling to the Black and brown community."
The other side: Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn), who is carrying the bill, said the effect on communities of color wasn't considered.
- "These maps were specifically drawn for political advantage," Smaltz said. "We didn't look at any information other than what created a political advantage."
- Smaltz said his caucus is moving quickly enough to allow time for the courts to consider any challenges to the bill.
Zoom in: Smaltz said the goal is ensuring congressional balance with a map in which all nine districts have a Republican advantage.
- While Carson won his seat by nearly 40 points in 2024, Smaltz said the new 7th District would likely give Republicans a 5-point advantage.
- When asked if he would run for reelection under the new maps, Carson told Axios he's "focused on the issues that matter to everyday Hoosiers right now" rather than the next campaign.
Reality check: If you look at the last presidential election, about 40% of the state is Democratic.
- President Trump and Republican U.S. Sen. Jim Banks received about 59% of the vote.
- Gov. Mike Braun received 54% of the vote.
What's next: HB 1032 will be heard on second reading Thursday, during which all members of the House may propose amendments.
- It is expected to receive a final vote in the House on Friday.
- The Senate will convene Monday to consider the bill.