Indiana Senate Delays Redistricting Decision Until 2026 Legislative Session
The Indiana Senate has decided not to convene before the 2026 Legislative Session commences in January, indicating that they will not address redistricting. The Senate voted 29 to 18 to adjourn for over three days, effectively concluding their business until the regular session begins on Jan. 5. Nineteen Republicans and 10 Democrats in the Senate supported the motion. Initially, both the House and Senate planned to meet on Dec. 1 to work on redistricting following a call for a special session by Gov. Mike Braun. However, Senate President Pro Tem Rod Bray announced that there were insufficient votes in the Senate to pass new congressional maps, leading to the decision not to convene. This decision was met with pressure from the administration, including direct calls to state senators and invitations to visit the White House. Sen. Greg Goode experienced a concerning incident at his home after being called out by President Trump. Despite the pressure, Braun had a conversation with the president and reiterated his desire for the Senate to meet and vote on the maps. House Speaker Todd Huston stated that the House is prepared to vote for redistricting and advised members to keep the Dec. 1-12 window open for voting, but the House ultimately decided to reconvene on Jan. 5. Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith expressed optimism after the Senate vote, indicating determination to accomplish the task. The Senate's decision coincided with a federal judge blocking the new congressional maps proposed by Texas Republicans as part of the President's nationwide redistricting initiative.