Hamilton opposes bill to make school board elections partisan

Monday, March 31, the House passed Senate Bill 287 by a vote of 54 to 40, with only Republicans in support. The bill makes Indiana’s school board elections partisan, requiring candidates to run as Democrat, Republican, Independent or with a blank space next to their name. The bill now heads to the Senate to approve the changes made in the House. 

State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis) issued the following statement upon the passage of the bill: 

“Forcing school board candidates to declare a political party affiliation invites the culture wars of Washington, D.C. into Hoosier classrooms. This change risks transforming these local races in a way that ultimately harms our schools and communities.

“Our schools deserve the most qualified leaders. This bill would significantly reduce the pool of candidates by excluding federal employees—including military members and others whose roles are funded wholly or partially by federal resources—due to restrictions under the Hatch Act that prohibit them from engaging in partisan political activity.

“In addition, many of today’s school board members serve because the role is nonpartisan. They want to give back to their communities—not engage in partisan politics. Requiring a party label will discourage these dedicated individuals from stepping forward.

“Our communities are already facing deep divisions. We should be focused on uniting people to improve education, not politicizing it further. This bill does nothing to help our schools—it only limits who can lead them.”