Indiana Senate GOP Lacks Votes for Redistricting

Indiana Senate Republicans say they do not currently have the votes to pursue a mid‑decade congressional redistricting plan, despite months of pressure from the White House and national Republicans seeking two additional GOP seats. The push included calls and meetings involving President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, but Molly Swigart, a spokesperson for Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray, confirmed “the votes aren’t there,” making the Senate the key holdout even as some House Republicans have been more receptive. Gov. Mike Braun has signaled he may call a special session if GOP leadership believes there is sufficient support to pass a map. Public opposition has been substantial — nearly 20,000 Hoosiers have contacted lawmakers and multiple polls show a majority oppose mid‑cycle redistricting — and Democrats and voting‑rights groups warn it could harm representation, particularly for Black voters in Indianapolis’ 7th District. Because Indiana is not required to redraw maps outside the decennial census, the outcome now hinges on whether GOP leaders can flip enough Senate votes or convince the governor to force a special session.