The Howard County Democratic Party is condemning Governor Mike Braun’s call for a special session of the Indiana General Assembly to reopen and redraw the state’s congressional maps — a move party leaders call a wasteful power grab that undermines public trust in Indiana’s elections.
According to multiple reports, Governor Braun could convene the session as soon as Monday, bringing lawmakers back to Indianapolis to redraw district lines originally approved in 2021. Those maps were meant to last until 2031, following the next federal census.
“This is cheating, plain and simple,” said HCDP Chair Lisa Washington. “The maps we have were drawn less than four years ago. Reopening them now doesn’t serve voters — it serves politicians who are scared to face them.”
The Howard County Democrats argue that the plan represents a dangerous precedent — breaking faith with Hoosiers who expect stable, fair representation. The move would also cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars for a session focused on political self-preservation rather than public need.
“Every hour spent on this special session is an hour not spent addressing real issues — schools, jobs, health care,” said Lisa Washington. “Indiana families play by the rules. We expect our leaders to do the same.”
The party has launched a new “Contact Your Lawmakers” action page where residents can email or call their local representatives and sign a petition demanding they vote NO on any mid-cycle redistricting plan.
The tool provides contact information and a way to send messages to Sen. Stacey Donato, Sen. Jim Buck, Rep. Mike Karickhoff, and Rep. Heath VanNatter, who each represent portions of Howard County.
“This fight may come down to a few votes,” Lisa Washington added. “If our legislators claim to stand for fairness and fiscal responsibility, this is the moment to prove it.”
The Howard County Democratic Party is urging residents to take action immediately through the new contact page found by going to HowardCountyDemocrats.com
Phase II complete on Parke County Rail Trail
Lineup of 50 new food creations featured during this year's Indiana State Fair
Indiana wrapping up recounts in three legislative races
New traffic pattern to impact State Road 63 in Vermillion County
Garth Brooks announces The Blame It All On My Roots Tour kicking off at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Art and photo contest open for DNR hard card licenses
IFB: Summer cookout costs decrease for Indiana shoppers, lower than U.S. average
$22 million Fourth of July water roller coaster coming to Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
ISDA Launches IMAGE Cost-Share Program for southwest Indiana producers
July 4th: Red Cross offers safety tips for a harmless holiday
Full steam ahead: Indiana State Fair to debut new Family Train Ride in 2026
Governor Braun highlights America 250 Celebrations, encourages communities to participate with sSpecial grant program
Arts grant to support Parke Players’ summer musical, Ritz Theater
Missing teen Peyton Fulk found in Florida
