1. United States
2. Ind.
3. Letter

I am writing to you today as a concerned Hoosier to express my strong opposition to the push for partisan redistricting during the special session. Using this process to redraw our state's political maps behind closed doors, without robust public input and independent oversight, is a profound disservice to every citizen of Indiana. The foundation of our republic is that voters should choose their representatives, not the other way around. Unfortunately, the practice of gerrymandering—drawing districts to predetermine electoral outcomes—subverts this principle. It creates non-competitive districts where politicians are accountable only to the extremes of their party, not to the broad electorate. This leads to the political polarization and legislative gridlock that frustrates so many of us. This view is not a partisan one; it is the will of the people you serve. Consistent, bipartisan polling has shown that an overwhelming majority of Hoosiers—Republicans, Democrats, and Independents alike—support taking the map-drawing power out of the hands of politicians and placing it in the hands of an independent, transparent citizens’ commission. They want a process that prioritizes keeping communities of interest whole and creating compact, fair districts, not ones that look like Rorschach tests designed for political gain. By rushing this process in a special session, you are ignoring this clear public consensus. A special session should be reserved for urgent matters of public safety and welfare, not for carving up our state into politically advantageous districts for the next decade. This haste risks shutting out the meaningful public scrutiny and input that such a foundational democratic process demands. You have an opportunity to be on the right side of history. I urge you to reject any redistricting plan that emerges from a partisan, rushed process. Instead, I implore you to use your leadership to champion true, long-term reform: the creation of an independent redistricting commission for Indiana. This is the only path to restoring faith in our elections and ensuring that every Hoosier’s vote truly counts. Thank you for your time and consideration of this critical issue.