(Statehouse) – Indiana’s redistricting fight now heads to the State Senate after the House voted 57-41 on Friday in favor of the proposed new congressional map.
The vote on House Bill 1032 was largely along party lines, but 11 Republicans – including local State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (HD 73-Shelbyville) – joined 30 Democrats in voting against it.
Alex Zimmerman (HD 67-North Vernon) was added as the bill’s co-author on Friday and voted for it, as did fellow Southeastern Indiana Republican lawmakers Lindsay Patterson (HD 55-Brookville) and Garrett Bascom (HD 68-Lawrenceburg).
Two representatives were excused from voting.
Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (HD 80-Fort Wayne) criticized the move, calling the maps “cracked-and-packed” and a distraction from issues such as high utility and healthcare costs.
The proposed changes could reshape Indiana’s 1st and 7th congressional districts, which are both currently held by Democrats.
House Republicans introduced the map earlier this month, with support from federal Republicans who see an opportunity to win those seats.
Gov. Mike Braun, Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith, and President Donald Trump have all backed the plan.
Meanwhile, Senate Democrats say they plan to introduce a bill to oppose the redistricting.
The Senate convenes on Monday.
Republicans hold seven of Indiana’s nine U.S. House seats.
The president and national Republicans have urged Hoosier lawmakers to pursue a 9-0 GOP map.
(Network Indiana contributed to this story)
