(Statehouse) – The Indiana Senate Committee on Elections approved House Bill 1032 Monday evening.
The measure calling for a mid-cycle redrawing of the state’s congressional maps passed out of committee by a 6-3 vote.
About 80 people testified before the committee against the idea, while roughly 20 others spoke in favor.
The mood in the hearing room grew tense at times.
Opponents, such as Marion County resident Carolyn Higginbotham, warned that mid-cycle redistricting would risk unfair political manipulation and erode public trust.
“We want our leaders to focus on the issues that really matter to us, issues like housing, education and health care. I know you’re feeling a lot of pressure to do the bidding of Washington. Some of you have received threats against you and your families,” said Higginbotham.
Supporters say the measure would help suburban areas where population grew quickly since 2020.
Michael Morris backs early redistricting and spoke to the panel on behalf of Lafayette Citizens in Action.
“It’s time for Republicans to take a page from our friends’ playbook, and even though we’re only now catching up, do the same,” Morris said. “Senators, I urge you not to just merely be in office, but to be in power and to use that power to save our federal republic.”
The bill now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
(Indiana News Now contributed to this story)
