Klinker comments on House passage of Republicans’ new congressional map

Today, Dec. 5, Indiana House Republicans passed House Bill 1032, the new congressional map. The map carves up like-minded communities as an attempt to unseat Indiana’s two democratic Congressmen. HB 1032 heads to the Senate for their consideration next week. 

State Rep. Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) released the following statement: 

“This map is a disservice to the people of Indiana. Mid-decade redistricting is an unnecessary effort that Hoosiers do not want. I’ve talked to folks at local events, in the grocery store and over the phone. They've been telling us a resounding ‘no’ on this issue for the past four months. 

“Folks in Lafayette want fair representation in Congress, but this new map could disenfranchise them. Splitting Tippecanoe County into different districts makes it difficult to resolve our communities’ interests and grievances. 

“More and more families are living paycheck to paycheck. Our young people are struggling to purchase their first homes. Our teachers are leaving the profession due to low pay. Our local public health corporations are facing a budget cut of $110 million. These are the issues we should focus on.  As lawmakers, we cannot put partisan politics above the needs of our people. 

“To my constituents, I hope you will continue your involvement on this issue next week when the bill is in the Senate.”