House Democrats prioritize needs of Hoosiers over politics

Today, Speaker of the House Todd Huston announced the Indiana House of Representatives will be back in session Dec. 1 to discuss redistricting and other items.  

House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) issued the following statement:

"Hoosiers have already said loud and clear that they don't want redistricting. Why are we wasting valuable time and resources on this when we could be lowering costs for Hoosiers? Under the Republican supermajority in the House, Hoosiers have been faced with decades of decay. They deserve better, and House Democrats plan to prioritize their needs this session.”

IBLC condemns Indiana Republicans’ continued redistricting push

Today, Speaker of the House Todd Huston and Senate Pro Tem. Rodric Bray announced the Indiana General Assembly will reconvene early for the 2026 session to discuss redistricting, starting December 1.  

State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago), chair of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus (IBLC), issued the following statement:

"Every day, we hear from constituents who are struggling to keep their lights on and put food on the table. Many of them are straddled with health care debt and rising utility costs. None of our constituents have called or emailed to tell them how excited they are about new congressional maps. Hoosiers don't want redistricting; they want a better quality of life. Instead of working to make life more affordable for Hoosiers, Indiana Republicans are focusing their efforts on appeasing Washington, D.C.

"The only thing they're doing by convening early is cutting into valuable time we could have come January to address the cost of living, health care costs and other issues impacting Indiana. If the state were to pass new congressional maps, the move would cause chaos for county clerks and local governments and unnecessary confusion for voters. Come Dec. 1,  I hope House Republicans take the time to consider the potential ramifications of mid-decade redistricting on Hoosiers and not move forward with any new maps."

Speaker Huston, Leader GiaQuinta issue joint statement condemning recent swatting, threats of violence against Senators

Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) and Indiana House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) issued the following joint statement today condemning the recent swatting and threats of violence against Senators:

"The threats, swatting attempts and other criminal activity being directed at our colleagues in the Senate are abhorrent and completely unacceptable. This is no way to express political disagreement, and it must stop. We thank our local, state and federal law enforcement for responding to and investigating these crimes, and for keeping our elected officials and their families safe. This is incredibly harmful to those being directly impacted and to our entire state. We're praying for our colleagues, their families and neighbors, and our law enforcement partners. We hope to see swift justice for anyone responsible for these crimes." 

Gore seeks to remedy gap in child protection law in wake of Epstein files vote

Yesterday, a post made by State Rep. Mitch Gore (D-Beech Grove) about child protection went viral. The volume of response makes something very clear: Hoosiers care deeply about how our laws treat children. 

“At a time when Hoosiers of all political stripes have followed the national debate over the release of the Epstein files closely, I want to call attention to a related issue in Indiana that almost no one is aware of,” Gore said. “Indiana still allows 16-year-olds to be married – sometimes to adults.

“Minors can’t vote, drive, sign contracts, open a credit card, or buy a home, yet the law still permits them to be legally bound to another person. This gap in the law leaves children – and let’s be clear, 16-year-olds are children – vulnerable to exploitation of all kinds. 

“I will be filing legislation this session to end child marriage in Indiana. This will be one of the state’s most significant child-protection reforms in years.  

“National politics can often leave many Hoosiers discouraged about the impact they can have. However, this simple change in our state law is achievable and will make a huge difference in the lives of vulnerable youth. I encourage Hoosiers to join me in supporting this law to protect our kids.”

Gore also serves as a captain at the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, which monitors over 1800 registered sex offenders. 

Porter calls for details on MDwise split since state owes company $313 million

Last week, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) cut ties with MDwise, a managed care health plan for Medicaid’s Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) and Hoosier Healthwise programs. Around 300,000 Hoosiers will need to choose a new provider during open enrollment. 

State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) is calling for details on the split – especially since Indiana owes MDwise an estimated $313 million.

“Continuity of care is the most important thing,” said Porter. “Less than two months is a short transition. Our case managers are overloaded, and it's the holidays. We can’t let people fall through the cracks. 

“This is starting to look similar to the IBM debacle. Indiana still owes MDwise $313 million. Will this lead to a long lawsuit? Indiana and IBM went back and forth for a decade. MDwise is already seeking an injunction and investigation. Legislators deserve the details since the FSSA’s decision will lead to legal action.

“I expect answers at the next State Budget Committee meeting, and I’m preparing legislation to ensure that big changes like this are fully deliberated.”

As Nov. 21 approaches, Smith reminds community of the Harvest Feast

As Thanksgiving approaches, Dr. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) would like to remind residents of the communities of Gary, Dyer, Schererville, Crown Point, Merrillville and Griffith about the Harvest Feast. The Feast will be held this Friday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m. at New Hope Church, 2307 Rhode Island St., in Gary. This event is held each year in honor of his mother, the Rev. Julia E. Smith, and his aunt Magnolia Allen. 

The feast is free to attend and open to all residents of the Greater Gary community. This year's performers include gospel soloists, Nate Mason and Stephan Henderson, the West Side Theatre Guild Repertoire Dance Company, the West Side Academy Drama Club and Wings of Harmony. 

“The Feast is happening this Friday, Nov. 21,” said Dr. Smith. “Please join me for food, fellowship and a chance to give thanks as a community. There’s no cost, no ticket. This is a free meal and everyone has a seat at our table.”

Attendees can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal, featuring turkey, dressing, roast beef, macaroni and cheese, green beans, greens, mashed potatoes, cabbage, sweet potatoes and a variety of desserts. 

“Once again, thank you to our performers who will bless us with their talent during the short service. Also, thank you to everyone who prepares our delicious meal. I am blessed to have a wonderful group of people behind me who support the Harvest Feast. Please join us for a hot meal and an evening of gratitude for God’s blessings.” 

Burton urges lawmakers to leave distractions behind as session begins

Today, State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) convened with lawmakers for Organization Day at the Statehouse for the ceremonial start of the 2026 legislative session. Burton reassures his commitment to addressing the real, everyday challenges facing Hoosiers. Burton was also appointed Ranking Minority Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, a position that will allow him to elevate issues related to Indiana’s natural assets.

“Organization Day is to reaffirm our responsibility to the people we serve. But over the last several months, far too much of the Statehouse’s attention has been tied up in a redistricting fight that no one in Evansville was asking to push forward. Hoosiers aren’t demanding new maps. They are telling us they’re overwhelmed by the cost of housing, utilities, child care and healthcare.

“We cannot afford to let any more time pass of us drifting from one crisis to the next. That means getting serious about affordability, stability and opportunity. Every Hoosier is expecting the Legislature to act on their behalf.

“With my recent appointment as RMM of the Natural Resources Committee, which I am humble and grateful for, will help me advocate for strong recreation and conservation policies, and environmental decisions that shape Indiana’s long-term economic well-being. Our natural resources are part of our identity and our economy. Whether it’s clean waterways, outdoor access or the health of the environment we’re leaving to the next generation, these issues deserve thoughtful, bipartisan work.

“My position hasn’t changed: keep people at the center, build consensus and deliver results to Hoosiers.”

After vote to adjourn until Jan. 5, House Democrats cautiously optimistic that redistricting has no path forward

Today, Organization Day, the Indiana House of Representatives voted to adjourn until Jan. 5, 2026. However, House Speaker Todd Huston told House members to keep their calendars open during the first two weeks of December for a possible special session.

House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) issued the following statement in response:

"After today's vote by both chambers to adjourn until January, House Democrats are cautiously optimistic that redistricting our congressional districts has no path forward. I want to thank the Hoosiers from all corners of our great state who called and emailed their legislators and showed up to town halls and rallies to voice their opinion. This is how our state government should work – being responsive to the wishes and desires of the people we were elected to serve.

"When the regular session kicks off in January, House Democrats will continue focusing on making Indiana more affordable. Hoosiers are struggling to make ends meet. That's why House Democrats will focus on cutting the cost of utilities, health care, housing and child care this year. Hoosiers make too little for life in Indiana to be this unaffordable. The General Assembly can solve these problems for people, and House Democrats are excited to get to work in January."

Novak on Organization Day: “It’s time to get to work, District 9 is ready.”

Today, State Rep. Randy Novak (D-Michigan City) convened with lawmakers for his first Organization Day. Novak stated he is honored to serve, humbled by the responsibility ready to get to work for the communities he represents. Novak, who was caucused into the seat earlier this year, will serve on the Natural Resources Committee and the Environmental Affairs Committee.

“I didn’t get here the traditional way, and that makes me even more humble to have this responsibility. It’s an honor to sit in this chamber and represent District 9. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me, and I’m ready to show people that I’m here to work.

“My committee assignments give me a direct platform to advocate for the challenges and opportunities in Northwest Indiana. Our district has a unique relationship with Lake Michigan and the environment around us, and it’s our responsibility to protect that.

“People want representation, not political division. They’re tired of national-level fights taking precedence over real local needs. Folks are worried about whether they can afford their heat bill this winter, whether their children are receiving a strong education, and if their taxpayer dollars are truly being invested back into their communities that serve them. They expect legislators who listen, collaborate and move Indiana forward - and I intend to be one of them.

“I look forward to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and beyond, to deliver solutions for Hoosiers. I’m ready to get to work and improve the quality of life for the people who call our community home.”

Hamilton supports Rokita lawsuit against Lake Castleton Apartments management

Today, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita filed civil action against Lake Castleton Apartments' owners and management. The lawsuit alleges that the landlords endangered tenants with uninhabitable conditions such as broken air conditioners, mold, pest infestation, water damage and sewage backups. 

State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis), whose district Lake Castleton Apartments are located in, issued the following statement in support of the lawsuit:

“For years, I have supported legislative efforts to enforce safer housing standards so that property managers like those in Lake Castleton Apartments cannot jeopardize the safety of their tenants. Indiana is one of the worst states in the nation when it comes to tenants’ rights, and the legislature has taken steps backwards in recent years by preempting local governments from taking matters into their own hands. I am thankful to our Attorney General for taking legal action to hold this bad actor accountable. Hoosiers deserve to feel safe in the housing they pay their hard-earned dollars to live in.”

Bauer shares update on redistricting decision

Today, State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) issued the following statement reacting to the news that Senate Republicans will not move forward on redistricting:

“During my recent town hall, many residents shared concerns about reopening this process mid-cycle. With this decision behind us, I am eager to focus on what Hoosiers truly need, lowering costs of living, improving access to government services and addressing the challenges that working families share with me every day as their representative.”

Hamilton reacts to redistricting not moving forward

State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement reacting to the news that Senate Republicans will not move forward on redistricting:

“The thousands of calls and emails that Hoosiers from across the state made to their legislators have been heard. It is a relief that the Indiana General Assembly will be able to return our full focus to the issue that matters most to Hoosiers – bringing down the cost of living. I look forward to putting the discussion about redistricting behind us as we head into the 2026 legislative session.”