Andrade condemns House for failing to protect voter integrity

Today, State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) spoke in opposition to House Bill 1032, which would redistrict Indiana’s congressional map and eliminate Democratic-controlled seats, ultimately giving Republicans the advantage in all nine congressional seats.

Andrade released the following statement on the bill’s passage out of the House:

“Northwest Indiana is my home. It’s where families work hard, where neighborhoods look out for one another and where people expect a fair shot at having their voices heard. And today, the community is being torn apart.

“These maps split Northwest Indiana, cutting through communities, economic corridors and cities that are connected in every meaningful way. And for what? Political gain. It’s being said out loud - and proudly.

“They were drawn to strengthen political power and to disenfranchise the voices of Hoosiers who trust us to represent them, not discard them. And this is all at a time when Hoosiers across the state already struggle to believe that the government listens. They see their voices being diluted. And then we wonder why public trust erodes year after year.

“Congressman Mrvan has been the voice of reason for Northwest Indiana in D.C. He continues to stand up for us despite being unwanted in our state by Republicans in Indianapolis who know nothing about The Region. These maps undermine the voice of the people and denounce a community that has contributed enormously to our state.

“Hoosiers deserve a legislature that values public trust. That reflects the real communities they represent. Leaders who put people before party.”