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Indiana's 4th Congressional District election (May 8, 2018 Republican primary)

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Indiana's 4th Congressional District
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Democratic primary
Republican primary
General election
Election details
Filing deadline: February 9, 2018
Primary: May 8, 2018
General: November 6, 2018
Pre-election incumbent:
Todd Rokita (Republican)
How to vote
Poll times: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Voting in Indiana
Race ratings
Cook Partisan Voter Index (2018): R+17
Cook Political Report: Solid Republican
Inside Elections: Solid Republican
Sabato's Crystal Ball: Safe Republican
Ballotpedia analysis
U.S. Senate battlegrounds
U.S. House battlegrounds
Federal and state primary competitiveness
Ballotpedia's Election Analysis Hub, 2018
See also
Indiana's 4th Congressional District
U.S. Senate • 1st • 2nd • 3rd • 4th • 5th • 6th • 7th • 8th • 9th
Indiana elections, 2018
U.S. Congress elections, 2018
U.S. Senate elections, 2018
U.S. House elections, 2018

State Rep. Jim Baird won the May 8, 2018, Republican primary election for Indiana's 4th Congressional District with 36.6 percent of the vote. Former state Rep. Steve Braun received 29.5 percent of the vote, while businessman Diego Morales received 15 percent.[1]

Four-term incumbent Rep. Todd Rokita (R) ran in the Republican Senate primary for a chance to challenge Sen. Joe Donnelly (D) rather than seeking re-election to the 4th District, leaving his U.S. House seat open.[2]

Braun and Morales emphasized their connections to former governor and sitting Vice President Mike Pence (R). Braun served as Pence's director of workforce development, while Morales was an advisor and director of community relations in the governor's office.[3][4]

On the campaign trail, both Braun and Morales made the case that they had the strongest tie to the Pence administration. Braun denied having knowledge of Morales' role in the administration at all during his time working for Pence in an interview with the IndyStar.[5] According to Morales, he was "the only candidate who can call the White House and get an answer."[6]

State Rep. Jim Baird (R) emphasized his military background and economic positions in his run for the seat. Although he did not emphasize connections to Mike Pence (R), Baird joined Braun and Morales in his support for President Trump (R), saying that the president "needs reinforcements to pass his America First agenda and drain the swamp" in a Facebook biography.[7]

Indiana's 4th congressional district, located in the western portion of the state, had been represented by a Republican since the 1994 elections. Since 2000, the narrowest margin of victory for a Republican candidate in the district was the 19.8 percent margin by which Rep. Steve Buyer (R) defeated challenger Nels Ackerson (D) in 2008.


Indiana voter? Dates you need to know.
Primary electionMay 8, 2018
Candidate filing deadlineFebruary 9, 2018
Registration deadlineApril 9, 2018
Absentee application deadlineApril 30, 2018
General electionNovember 6, 2018
Voting information
Primary typeOpen
Polling locations: Go to this page to find early voting locations and your assigned precinct for election day.


For more on related elections, please see:


Candidates and election results

The following candidates ran in the Republican primary for U.S. House Indiana District 4 on May 8, 2018.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Indiana District 4

Candidate
%
Votes
✔
Image of Jim Baird
Jim Baird
 
36.6
 
29,319
Image of Steve Braun
Steve Braun
 
29.5
 
23,602
Image of Diego Morales
Diego Morales
 
15.0
 
11,997
Image of Jared Thomas
Jared Thomas
 
10.5
 
8,435
Image of Kevin Grant
Kevin Grant
 
4.6
 
3,667
Image of James Nease
James Nease
 
2.6
 
2,097
Image of Tim Radice
Tim Radice
 
1.3
 
1,013

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified.

Total votes: 80,130
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Top candidates

Each of the following top candidates had reported at least $100,000 in fundraising as of the filing deadline.

Republican Party Jim Baird

James Baird.jpg

Baird was first elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 2010. At the start of the 2017 legislative session, Baird served on the Agriculture and Rural Development, Veterans Affairs and Public Safety, and Ways and Means committees.

In his October 2017 announcement that he would seek the seat, Baird said that he was motivated by "a tremendous need for a common sense approach to fix the broken system in Washington."[8] Baird's campaign website argued that "we have real challenges facing our country and the career politicians in Washington have failed the American people with all talk and no action. President Trump needs reinforcements to pass his America First agenda and drain the swamp. I will stand with the President and fight to end the political class’ grip on power in Washington."[9]

Republican Party Steve Braun

Steve Braun.jpg

Braun was first elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 2012. He resigned his seat in the House in 2014 after Gov. Mike Pence (R) nominated him to lead the state's Department of Workforce Development.

In his September 2017 announcement that he would seek the seat, Braun said that his run was motivated by a desire "to continue to use my experience creating thousands of private sector jobs to serve my community and country."[10] Braun's campaign website described him as "the conservative leader Donald Trump needs to put America first."[11] The website highlighted Braun's positions on abortion, firearms regulations, and immigration.



Republican Party Diego Morales

Diego Morales.jpg

A businessman who had served as a senior advisor to former Gov. Mike Pence (R) and as director of intergovernmental relations for the Indiana Secretary of State, Morales had not previously held elected office.

In his August 2017 campaign announcement, Morales argued that "my fellow Hoosiers want someone with an understanding of national security who shares their conservative values and is guided by faith." Morales added that "as an Army veteran, I will stand firm in supporting President Trump and Vice President Pence’s vision for a stronger America where our families can grow and prosper."[12] On his campaign website, Morales described his vision as "to help Indiana's citizens and businesses be successful" and argued that his "commitment to innovation and [his] business experience will help us find new, more-efficient ways to govern and to help everyone discover his or her own American Dream."[13]

List of all candidates

See also: Statistics on U.S. Congress candidates, 2018

Republican Party Republican primary candidates

Campaign themes and policy stances

Republican Party Jim Baird

“ There is a tremendous need for a common sense approach to fix the broken system in Washington. We need new leaders in Washington who will stand up for West Central Indiana and actually get things done for the American people.

I want every American to have the opportunity to enjoy success, prosperity and freedom. A limited government approach, rooted in constitutional principles, will be what preserves the American dream for the next generation of this wonderful country. I look forward to listening to the concerns of my fellow citizens in District 4 and the opportunity to win grassroots support throughout West Central Indiana.
We have real challenges facing our country and the career politicians in Washington have failed the American people with all talk and no action. President Trump needs reinforcements to pass his America First agenda and drain the swamp. I will stand with the President and fight to end the political class’ grip on power in Washington.
I look forward to partnering with President Trump and Vice-President Pence to repeal Obamacare, reform our outdated and unfair tax code, and bring jobs back to America.[14]

”
—Elect Jim Baird[15]

Republican Party Steve Braun

“

Pro-life
I believe life begins at conception and will always defend the rights of the unborn in Washington. Our tax dollars must never be used to fund abortion. When I ran for State Representative, I earned the endorsement of Indiana Right to Life.

Second amendment
The right to bear arms is not only a constitutional right, it is a cherished Hoosier value. I will fight anyone who wants to take away our basic right to own a gun. I am a member of the NRA, and when I ran for State Representative, I earned the endorsement of the NRA.

Immigration
President Trump needs conservative leaders to help him put America first. That includes shutting down illegal immigration and securing our borders. We are a nation of immigrants, and the diverse makeup of our social fabric has contributed to America’s greatness for over 240 years. Unfortunately, our immigration system has become dysfunctional and jeopardizes the safety of the law-abiding people who live here legally. We must secure our borders to end the influx of illegal immigrants and drugs that pour across our southern border. I support President Donald Trump’s efforts to ensure that current immigration laws are enforced. Immigration reform is a complex issue, and it is vital to our national interests that we fix this broken system

Jobs & Economy
I have spent 35 years of my life in the private sector creating jobs. After a brief stint at Price Waterhouse, I took a risk and started a technology company that grew to more than 700 employees at its peak. We hired thousands of employees, and I learned early on that our success was not dependent on government – our success was a result of initiative and hard work. After selling my company, I have focused my efforts on investing in companies and building businesses in both real estate and agriculture. I know firsthand the barriers government places on employers and employees. We need to reduce burdens on job creators, not create more hoops for them to jump through. In Congress, I will take my experiences and fight to cut red tape and eliminate the unnecessary regulations that hurt Hoosier workers. Entrepreneurs and small businesses, not government, are the hubs of innovation and economic prosperity in Indiana and across the nation, and I will champion legislative policies that restore this principle. I will actively work to support the passage of the Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2017 (REINS Act). I am in favor of tax reform. Washington should implement a flat, fair structure, and lower the overall tax burden on Hoosier families and their businesses. We also need to simplify the tax code by eliminating special interest tax breaks and loopholes. I also favor repealing and replacing Obamacare and ending the program’s job-killing policies. I served in the Indiana General Assembly – as a member of the Ways and Means Committee – to help bring some business principles to government, and I will do the same thing in Washington.

National Security
A strong military is the foundation of our nation’s security and prosperity. Protecting the American people will always be the top priority, and in Congress, I will support our funding for the military and our veterans. As threats and challenges to our nation evolve, our defense capabilities must follow suit, and that requires Congress to continue investing in the technology of tomorrow. Our reliance on technology in everyday life requires a cybersecurity strategy against foreign invaders. We must protect our country’s intellectual property, business and individual financial information, and our energy delivery infrastructure. Cybersecurity now and in the future is among the important issues facing our nation. Our adversaries are becoming more capable at using technology to threaten our interests. I believe that we need to increase cooperation and collaboration between the government and private sector to design and implement future systems and products with national security in mind.

Defense of our Allies
The United States must be clear in projecting strength and ensuring that hostile nations know we will stand with our allies across the globe. Israel is a critical U.S. ally, and we must always stand in defense of them from enemy forces in the region. NATO has been a force for peace in Europe and across the world, and the United States must continue to support its objectives. Lastly, we must ensure that North Korea, its nuclear ambitions, and its dangerous behavior do not destabilize that region of the world.

Fighting Terrorism
America must continue to lead in the fight against terror. I will support our military leader’s plans to eradicate ISIS and secure peace and stability in Afghanistan and Iraq. As the terrorists continue their attacks in new forms, we must invest in our intelligence agencies to make sure we are doing everything possible to protect Americans at home and abroad.

Veterans
Our nation’s veterans put their lives on the line every day for our freedom. My own father served in World War II. He and countless others through the years have served with honor and dignity and deserve the best care and support we can provide when they return home. I have the highest respect for the men and women who serve in the military, and in Congress I will work to build on recent reforms to our Veterans Affairs Administration that increase accessibility to quality health care, employment opportunities and benefits. As DWD Commissioner, I worked to expand employment opportunities for our service members when they return home to Indiana. In Congress I will support federal programs to expand these opportunities, including the USDA’s Veterans to Agriculture program to train and develop our next generation of farmers.

Tax Reform
America has the highest corporate income tax rate in the world, which is stifling economic growth and contributing to American jobs moving to other countries. I will work to reform our tax code to lower rates for businesses and families. America needs a tax code that doesn’t require more than eight hours to complete. We need a tax structure that is easier to understand and encourages investment and growth. Additionally, we must eliminate the federal estate tax that is unfair to our small businesses and farmers.

Health Care
Obamacare has failed to do what was promised – resulting in higher premiums and rising health care costs that are hurting Hoosier families. I support the repeal and replacement of Obamacare with a plan that will lower premiums and provide states more flexibility over Medicaid dollars so low-income families continue to have access to affordable healthcare.

Government Spending
Federal government spending continues to increase at levels that cannot and should not be sustained. The federal deficit continues at levels that threaten future generations – $700M in 2017 alone – which adds to our nation’s growing debt of almost $20 trillion. I will fight to eliminate waste, fraud and abuse in government and support responsible spending cuts that will enable us to pass balanced budgets and reduce our national debt in the long term. As DWD Commissioner, I led efforts to crack down on fraud in the unemployment trust fund, saving Indiana taxpayers more than $200 million. I support a constitutional amendment that will require Congress to pass a balanced budget, providing certainty to both the public and private sectors on future government spending.

Education
Supporting high-quality education opportunities for Hoosiers of all backgrounds and economic standing is fundamental to our nation’s future. I believe in empowering the local decision-making of parents and educators. It is common sense that parents understand what is best for their child, and we should level the playing field and allow parents to choose the school that best meets a student’s needs – public or private – and regardless of income or geography. This is an issue that is close to my heart from my work helping to launch the Oaks Academy in Indianapolis, which focuses on helping underprivileged children. A high-quality education provides the foundation for a good job, which is fundamental to creating stronger families and a higher quality of life. As the Commissioner of Workforce Development for Governors Mike Pence and Eric Holcomb, I worked tirelessly to strengthen and align education and workforce development programs. I have seen firsthand where the federal government must do more to cultivate collaboration between educators and business leaders, so our education institutions are teaching the skills and competencies necessary to fill the high-demand, high-wage jobs of the future. The US Department of Education has become too large and ineffective at providing meaningful assistance. We need to move power away from Washington and back to the states. I would support legislation to simplify and streamline the allocation of federal tax dollars back to states and local leaders to use as they see fit. Career and Technical Education (CTE) should be an area of focus and investment. We can improve significantly on the job we do preparing students to enter rewarding careers in Indiana’s major industries: manufacturing, information technology, health care, transportation/logistics, and the building/construction trades. Supporting work-based learning and apprenticeship models are also important to offering students real-life experience and a better-rounded educational experience, better preparing them for a career and lowering the need for incurring student loan debt.

Social Security
As Baby Boomers head toward retirement at historic levels, Congress must act to reform and preserve Social Security for them and for future generations. Failing to action will result in the Social Security Trust Fund running out of money, and that will result in harmful benefit cuts – and that is unacceptable. We must keep our promises to seniors in the system and restore the Trust Fund to a solid level of stability. I support common sense reforms that leave benefits in place for those currently receiving them and allowing younger workers to have more control over how their money is invested for retirement.

State's Rights
It has been a long time since Americans help a positive view about the work Congress is doing on their behalf. Simply put, Washington is mired in political gridlock that leaves the biggest problems unsolved. This failed system of federal control isn’t accountable, responsive, nor innovative enough to improve the lives of Hoosiers. But here in Indiana, under the leadership of Governors like Mitch Daniels, Vice President Mike Pence and Eric Holcomb, we see every day how small, effective government works best. Restoring more control to state and local governments, entities that are more reactive, flexible and accountable to issues that influence Hoosiers, should be the role of the federal government.

Agriculture
I have witnessed how Washington’s regulatory overreach has been hard on Indiana farmers. The EPA’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) placed every waterway in the country under the control of the EPA and solved nothing in the process. Thankfully, we have a new President who is rolling back some of these anti-growth regulations, but Congress must also act. I will co-sponsor and fight to pass the REINS Act and insert Congressional oversight and the voice of the American people into the current federal government rule making process to restrain out of control Washington bureaucrats. [14]

”
—Steve Braun for Congress[16]

Republican Party Kevin Grant

“

Abortion

  • Pro-life

Budget & Economy

  • Signed pledge to “Reject the Debt” through Coalition to Reduce Spending.
  • I, Kevin J. Grant, pledge to the citizens of Indiana and to the American people that, related to a congressional authorization of force, I will:
    • ONE, consider all spending open for reduction and vote only for budgets that present a path to balance; and
    • TWO, vote against any appropriations bill that increases total spending and against the authorization of funding of new programs without offsetting cuts in other programs.
    • Pledge signed, 4/1/2014, KJG.

Civil Rights

  • In my opinion, no individual should be judged by their economic status, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation.
  • Military veterans along with their families have suffered & sacrificed in order to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. As a decorated combat veteran, I will continue to fight for the protection of our Civil Rights.
  • One exception, I will not tolerate anyone desecrating the American Flag.

Corporations

  • In order to create more jobs in the United States, I would support a plan to reduce taxes that corporations pay. My thoughts are…if a company pays less in taxes, then that capital could be used for new projects, which will increase the demand for workers, workers earn a paycheck, and then their money is introduced into the local economy.
  • This idea would create a ripple effect; more money spent in the local economy would create more jobs.

Drugs

  • Drugs are destroying families and killing thousands of people across the United States.
  • Utilizing my military experience, along with key personnel, I will develop a Drug Task Force (DTF) to review our current policy, procedures, past missions and current operations of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). My goal is to stop the flow of drugs into the United States.
  • With reference to “legalizing marijuana”, I am against this practice.

Foreign Policy

  • First and foremost, I would encourage the new Presidential administration to improve relations with our allies…especially Israel.
  • I would not advise any Presidential administration to broker deals with Terror sponsored states.
  • The current Iran “Nuke deal” is a mistake and should be terminated ASAP.
  • With reference to Foreign Aid, I believe we should stop sending billions of Tax Payers money to Foreign Countries and focus on the United States.

Free Trade

  • I support Free Trade as long it is fair and equitable for both parties.

Gun Control

  • As stated by many, “guns don’t kill people…people kill people”. The Federal Government should stay out of its citizen’s lives by trying to control who can have (and what type) weapons.

Health Care

  • With reference to Obamacare, insurance premiums continue to increase; it must be repealed & replaced.

Homeland Security

  • With reference to the U.S. Mexico border, I propose that we continue to utilize the Army National Guard (which would be paid by the U.S. Government ((i.e. Title 10/32) and not the states bordering Mexico) by conducting six month rotations at the border.
  • With reference to Donald Trump’s plan to build a wall…I support the idea and would utilize the Army Corps of Engineers to build it.

Immigration

  • With reference to Illegal Immigration, the current laws should be adhered too until some type of reform can be developed and implemented.

Religion

  • I am a “Born again” Christian (Baptist) who believes we should keep God in the Public sphere.

Principles & Values
Throughout my life, I have adhered to the following principles/values/ideas:

  • First off, I have never been a “Yes Man”…if I see something that is not quite right…I will challenge it until an appropriate idea/solution is presented.
  • With reference to voting in the House, I will not always vote along party lines. I will base my vote on the prevailing wishes between myself and the citizens of Indiana.
  • I believe in: Integrity, Honor, Selfless Service, Duty, Respect & Loyalty.

Same Sex Marriage

  • I stand by the Biblical definition of marriage between a man and a woman.

Social Security

  • First and foremost, we should not touch Social Security Funds in order to pay for other Government programs. Privatize Social Security; let people invest in their own retirement plans.

Tax Reform

  • The current tax system is outdated and needs to be revised.

[14]

”
—Kevin Grant[17]

Republican Party Diego Morales

“ I’m proud to be a 21st century Hoosier-American.

I am fortunate to call Indiana "my home" and to know all Hoosiers as "my neighbors." For me, living the American Dream in the Great Hoosier State is a privilege that I never take for granted and it brings with it a duty to serve. From my service in the U.S. Army to my vast and varied experience in the private and public sectors, I've gained insight into who we are as Americans - and what we need to do to create opportunities within our state and our local communities.

My vision is to help Indiana's citizens and businesses be successful. My values reflect those of Hoosiers across the state. My commitment to innovation and my business experience will help us find new, more-efficient ways to govern and to help everyone discover his or her own American Dream. I look to you to guide me as I explore how best to serve you and our great state.[14]

”
—Diego Morales for Congress, "My Inspiration," accessed May 4, 2018

Republican Party Tim Radice

“

Job Growth and Economics

  • I support the Trump tax cuts and minimum tax law
  • I fully support removing negative regulations for all business
  • I support giving all business relief from Obamacare to create more full time jobs

How I will aid job growth and how it affects our district

  • Pass Minimum Tax Law as opposed to Minimum Wage.
    • MTL allows Hoosiers who make up to $14.00 an hour, to pay no income taxes. Increasing wealth, productivity for working people.
  • Ending Obamacare job penalties for hourly workers
    • No longer penalizing companies will allow the growth for full time jobs. This will create the ideal job for the people in District 4.
  • Support the Small Business Investment Opportunity Act of 2017.
    • Would allow easier access to capital for small business and entrepreneurship. Helping create the opportunity for new business and job growth for the future of District 4.
  • Curbing nonsense regulations.
    • Eliminating rules like mandatory calorie markers on vending machines, filing 200 additional 1099's, or jailing people for collecting rainwater is common sense.

Pro life and traditional values

  • I am pro life
  • I support traditional values
  • I support restoring the nuclear family

How I will support pro life values and how this will affect our district

  • Vote to Repeal Roe v Wade, etc all.
    • Will restore the sanctity of life, decrease our dependence on immigration, and restore state power.
  • Support giving financial incentives for family's to stay together.
    • Giving Hoosiers additional financial support to take care of their families will lessen their burdens.
  • Supporting and protecting religious freedom.
    • Protecting the religious freedom of Hoosiers will allow our citizens to practice their beliefs without government interference.
  • Support Traditional Marriage and Reform Current Marriage Laws
    • Creating laws that will lead to a stronger family unit will lower divorce rates and increase marriage rates. Creating stability for Hoosiers.

Protecting our right to bear arms

  • I fully support your right to bear arms

How I will defend your gun rights and how it affects our district

  • Support National Constitutional Carry Law.
    • Hoosiers no longer need to buy a permit for their right to defend themselves and their family.
  • Mandate a certificate card to be given to replace current gun permits.
    • Hoosiers will be able to carry their guns freely, and aid police departments in establishing which citizens may legally carry arms. At no cost.
  • 100% support State to State Carry Law. Also known as National Reciprocity.
    • Hoosiers will be able to carry their guns, no matter what magazine capacity or legal caliber across state lines. Making gun laws uniform and easier to obey.
  • Pass the MAPS Act
    • Ammunition stores, or manufactures across District 4 and Indiana will be protected from frivolous lawsuits.

Border security and immigration

  • I support building the wall on our southern border
  • I will never support amnesty America first
  • We must enforce our immigration laws

How I will reform immigration and how it affects our district

  • Support making English the Natoinal language
    • Makes immigrants in our district transition easier. Enhances respecting American culture.
  • Enforcing current immigration laws
    • Put's our Hoosier first. Increasing wages, decreasing state costs, decreasing crime.
  • Support funding for building a wall
    • Will substantially help decrease the flow of illegal immigrants and criminals from entering the Untied States.
  • Support the RAISE ACT for legal immigration
    • Will help our nation get the best immigrants from across the world.

Healthcare reform

  • I support repealing and replacing Obamacare
  • I support banning harmful opioid drugs
  • I support broader drug rehabilitation for patients

How I will reform healthcare and how it affects our district

  • Repeal and replace Obamacare
    • Will allow Hoosiers to control their Healthcare.
  • End the war on drugs
    • Will allow the State of Indiana control over drug laws.
  • Ban harmful opioids.
    • Is a step that will help relieve the Opioid crisis that is poisoning our State.
  • Legalize medical marijuana for Veterans
    • Will allow all veterans to use medical marijuana for treatment of PTSD or other.

Veterans and military spending
It's our duty as Americans to be the shield of our veterans.

We must address veteran unemployment, mental healthcare, and retirement.

We must end nation building and let only Congress declare war as by the Constitution.

How I will support our veterans and military and how it affects our district

  • Always ensure Military funding.
    • Our Hoosier veterans and military will never live in fear of not having funding.
  • Pass the VALOR And HIRE Acts.
    • Will give working and disabled Hoosier veterans unique employment opportunities.
  • Pass the Enhancing Veteran Care Act.
    • Will help reduce PTSD and Suicide rates for Hoosier Veterans.
  • Renovate and propose and new veterans home.
    • Would renovate the current Soldiers home in West Lafayette and expand a new home for veterans in Putnam County.

Free speech

  • I support political free speech for labor and business
  • I support Internet free speech
  • I support protecting campus speech

How I will protect free speech and how it affects our district

  • Protect political speech for labor
    • Will protect Hoosiers whom express their opinions outside of work from termination.
  • Penalize colleges that abuse free speech
    • Will protect all college students in Indiana to express their speech without fear of speaking out.
  • Mandate that ISP and Internet websites are bound by the first amendment
    • Will protect Hoosiers from internet censorship by corporations or other abusive organizations.
  • Firmly enforce that organizations are never stripped of free speech because of their income
    • Will protect free speech for business, non-profit and religious organizations to freely express themselves.

We must never forget the abuse of our speech during the 2016 election cycle.

Education reform

  • I will vote to end Common Core
  • I will vote to end mandatory testing
  • I support federal bullying reporting legislation

How I will reform education and how it affects our district

  • End Common Core
    • Will let Hoosier teachers decide how to teach their students, not arbitrary federal rules.
  • End mandatory testing
    • Will allow teachers to test students based on the students needs.
  • Create new programs to develop apprenticeships and trade schools
    • Would enhance trade skills and other working professional people to allow better and cheaper on the job training.
  • Pass Federal Bullying Reporting Act
    • Would be the first federal legislation to allow students to report bullying. And report bullying to the school and parents.

Federal spending and Social Security

  • I will never vote to cut Social Security
  • I will vote to stop government waste
  • I will vote to end outdated programs

How I will help reduce federal spending and how it affects our district

  • Mandate a mandatory balanced budget
    • Will ensure that more tax dollars stay in the pockets of Hoosiers.
  • End outdated and highly noneffective programs
    • Will free up more wealth for more important programs that help Hoosiers.
  • Separate Social Security from the federal budget
    • Will ensure Social Security isn't abused. Along with fixing the 70 Billion dollar deficit currently to keep entitlements flowing.
  • Curb federal waste, fraud and abuse
    • Will ensure that money which is used for our District is made to benefit our people.

Farming and agriculture

  • I will put farmers first and end Obamacare forced coverage
  • I support farming infrastructure and technology investment
  • I support education incentives for new farming generations

How I will help Indiana farmers and how it affects our district

  • Vote to invest in farming infrastructure
    • Will help improve data collecting, internet connections, and soil detection for Hoosier farmers.
  • Remove Obamacare requirements
    • Will stop penalizing farmers and their contractors being forces to give health insurance.
  • Pass education investment for new generations of farmers
    • Will give new farming generations in the State of Indiana incentives to invest in Agricultural education.
  • Help pass the Federal Water Quality Protection Act and Extend crop insurance coverage
    • Will impact Hoosier farmers by easing rules for water and increase crop coverage for bio fuels, feed stocks, and other.

Government abuse

  • I support ending abusive NSA spying on our citizens.
  • I will vote to stop the abuse of the FISA court and Department of Justice
  • I will vote to axe government theft through abusive asset forfeiture

How I will fight government corruption and how it affects our district

  • End abusive NSA spying on citizens
    • Will restore the privacy of Hoosiers from abusive spying and prevent government blackmail.
  • End abusive asset forfeiture law
    • Will respect our Hoosiers private property from being taken away by corrupt law enforcement organizations.
  • Reform the abusive FISA court and Department of Justice
    • Will penalize and punish anybody who would try to use government agencies to overturn or unlawfully influence an election.
  • Call for a full criminal investigation regarding the Clinton email scandal
    • Will ensure that no person, no matter who they be, are fully held to account for their crimes, regardless.

[14]

”
—Tim Radice for Congress[18]

Republican Party Jared Thomas

“

Term limits
Capitol Hill is a disaster. Time and time again, our elected leaders prove their ineptitude and we continue to send them back to Washington. Those we have trusted to represent us have proven to be career politicians, beholden to special and personal interests instead of to their constituents. Politicians in Washington demonstrate more interest in campaigning for re-election than they do in creating actual change. I will support legislation that finally establishes term limits for our country’s career politicians, decreases the salary of elected officials, and ensures that politicians have to use the same healthcare plan that they are voting on for the American people. I have promised to join the Term Limits Caucus, and I have promised to excuse myself from office after three terms. That is what our founders intended, and that is what the American people deserve.

National security
American foreign policy has always been most effective when we take the Teddy Roosevelt approach: “Speak softly and carry a big stick. That means a strong military, strengthened partnerships with allies like Israel, and strong political and economic ties with countries who promote Western Democracy. The best deterrent of foreign aggression against our nation is a strong military. However, deterrence can often be accomplished before that military is called upon. Countries that do not support our sanctions and joint cooperation against North Korea should be pressured harder economically and politically. When we take a stance throughout the globe, we should be prepared to back up our words with actions. For far too long, veterans have played too small a role in the decision-making process to send our nation's sons and daughters to war. I know the cost of that decision. Hundreds of my classmates and my friends are deployed abroad right now working in joint operation centers across the globe. They are my policy advisors, not some Washington think-tank or lobbyist group. I intend to provide the kind of leadership and experienced voice that have been missing in Washington.

Veterans issues
There are an estimated 21.6 million veterans in the United States. Nearly 550,000 of those veterans call Indiana home. Nearly 9 million veterans are enrolled in health care provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs. As a former Army officer, I am fully aware of the struggles my brothers and sisters are facing when it comes to receiving the healthcare they deserve. I am committed to expanding programs that allow veterans to choose their own doctor and hold healthcare providers who fail our service men and women accountable. I have seen firsthand the kind of sacrifices our nation’s military personnel make overseas, and I can say with more conviction than most that our country’s veterans deserve only the very best.

Jobs & Economy
Even one Hoosier out of work or underemployed is one too many. We need to do everything in our power to bring our fellow Hoosiers back to the table, and we need to get those folks caught up financially.

That said, Indiana sets the standard for sound fiscal policy in the United States with an AAA credit rating and an actual budget surplus. While other states are raising taxes to keep up with mounting debt, Indiana continues to make smart financial choices. Put simply, we need to replicate this model for the rest of the nation. A welcoming tax environment and less regulation will incentivize businesses to move to Indiana, and hardworking Hoosiers will keep them here.

I support Governor Holcomb’s “Next Level Roads Plan.” As the “Crossroads of America,” Indiana should lead the nation in quality, maintenance, and efficiency of infrastructure, and the federal government should support us in that endeavor. Infrastructure initiatives also provide the opportunity to create jobs for Hoosiers that need them, and I intend to support legislation that does exactly that.

Agriculture
Indiana's agriculture helps feed the world. Yet, the federal government--and the EPA in particular--continues to overstep its boundaries with unfair regulations that are an abuse of power. Indiana ranks #1 in wood office furniture, #1 in kitchen cabinet manufacturing, and #1 in duck production. With $5.7B in agricultural exports last year, we clearly have a lot to offer the country and the world right here in Indiana. I intend to uplift our phenomenal agribusiness community by drastically cutting this unnecessary regulation. Let’s remove government from the equation and let Hoosiers do business.

Justice & equality
Concepts like Capital J “Justice,” and Capital E “Equality” are not political issues that are up for debate. They aren’t for liberals or conservatives. They aren’t for Democrats or Republicans. They are for ALL Americans. We are all Americans. It is time for us to start treating folks from every race, creed, and religion with the dignity and respect that they deserve.

America has left behind, outsourced, and drained economic opportunity (both in Rural America and in our inner cities) in favor of foreign workers. We are witnessing a decimating opioid epidemic, a breakdown of family structure, and conflicts with law enforcement in cities throughout the country. Providing new economic opportunities is the first and most important goal that our government should be working towards. Innovating—just as Hoosiers continue to do—is how we will bridge that gap and find the solutions to our current economic challenges.

In order to get there, the best thing government can begin to do is reduce the strain on job producers with burdensome taxes and unnecessary regulations dictated from Washington. As a country, we also need to take a good, hard look at the way some of the laws created in the mid-1900s regarding housing, education, and the justice system in general, are still negatively impacting large groups of Americans today.

Opioid epidemic
Like much of the country, Indiana’s 4th District hasn't escaped the opioid epidemic. There have been some pretty illuminating studies published recently and a couple things are very clear:

Patients are over-prescribed and under-educated. This problem, of course, dates back to some false advertising by "Big Pharma" when pain pills first began being actively prescribed. One recent study found that only 62% of patients were even instructed about pain management strategies that did not involve drugs. Shockingly high numbers aren't even aware of the addictive nature of the drugs.

Furthermore, while our country’s talented, caring, and dedicated doctors are now well-aware of the problems posed by opioid prescription, this wasn’t the case until fairly recently. Decades ago, one doctor performed a study on only patients under his care in his hospital. He carefully monitored their dosage and concluded that a negligible number of patients under carefully supervised care showed signs of addiction. This was one sentence in one report. A renowned medical journal published that one sentence. It was accepted as gospel. It made its way into every single medical textbook, and was taught to every single medical student for multiple decades.

Perhaps one of the quickest fixes in terms of prevention, is to ensure that patients with musculoskeletal issues are referred to a physical therapist as opposed to seeing a primary care physician (who doesn't specialize in that area and may be more inclined to prescribe drugs for pain management as opposed to therapy).

The military employs many physical therapists, and we were almost always referred to one for therapy before drugs were even considered. We can take this one step farther by removing the need for a physician's referral and allowing patients direct access to physical therapists.

This is unfortunately only one aspect of the problem, however, and we still need to find a way to get our brothers and sisters that are currently addicted back on track and healthy. Governor Holcomb takes this complex and challenging issue extremely seriously, setting a goal for treatment facilities to be within one hour of every single Hoosier. As with so many other initiatives, Indiana is leading the charge to combat this issue and to implement the creative measures necessary to solve this problem.

We also need to tackle the corporatization of the black tar heroin trade and find a "best practice" for attacking that complex issue. The vast majority of the heroin peddled in this country comes from just one city in Mexico: Xalisco, Nayarit.

This is a three-part problem:

1) Opioid Addiction Prevention 2) Opioid Addiction Treatment/Recovery 3) Combatting the flawless corporatization of the heroin trade”

2nd Amendment
As a gun-owning Army veteran, I believe that the Constitution of the United States guarantees every American the right to bear arms. Focusing on safe, responsible gun ownership should be our focus as we respect citizens' constitutional rights.

That said, those affected by the tragedies our country has faced are tired of hearing mere condolences. They want action, and these extremely complex and emotionally-charged issues cannot be solved by Republicans or Democrats alone. Issues like this one require the complete cooperation of both parties, as this affects all of us.

One of the unfortunate aspects of this debate is that the overwhelming majority of responsible Hoosier gun owners feel vilified in times like these. Hoosiers that practice safe gun ownership—using their guns for sport and for home defense—are being attacked as viciously as the deranged individuals that commit these atrocities. The vast majority of Hoosiers have done no wrong and have committed no crime. They have merely exercised their Constitutional right to bear arms.

Given these recent tragedies, now is not a time to step away from this challenge. I believe there is a way to protect the American public—especially our children—by reviewing, revising, and enacting sensible gun laws (such as expanding and enhancing our background check programs), while still preserving our 2nd Amendment rights. This cannot end with a simple review of our gun laws, however. We need to undertake an education campaign that works with our communities to arm them with the information necessary to identify the warning signs of individuals who may be on the verge of committing these atrocities. We need to work to destigmatize mental illness and treat it for what it is—a disease. We need to work with our medical communities to provide them with the resources necessary to effectively treat people with mental illness. We need to work with our schools to ensure they are safe places for our kids to grow physically and mentally. Our teachers, guidance counselors, and administrators need to receive continual education to recognize and respond to at-risk groups within the student population. We need to effectively deal with bullying, and help foster a school community that seeks to reduce the chances for individual students to become isolated and radicalized in their thinking. This complex issue requires a societal approach that includes so much more than gun laws. Elected leaders should not be hesitant to tackle this problem. We must do something now—the future of our country and the safety of our children demand action.

Abortion
The debate surrounding abortion really boils down to one question: at what point is a fetus considered a human life with the "inalienable rights" of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness"? As a Christian, I, personally, was raised to believe that God knew us before we were even born, so my answer is "at conception."

However, the landmark case of Roe v. Wade made abortions legal across this country and gave women the right to choose. In Indiana, we took this decision in stride, and set our sights on helping as many women as possible choose life. Our focus has shifted to sex education and pregnancy prevention, and our state legislators have ensured that women seeking an abortion are well-informed about all other options available to them, such as adoption. Our informed consent brochure shows a fetus at various stages of a pregnancy and explains the risks and complications that sometimes come with an abortion procedure. Finally, abortion providers in Indiana are required to offer the mother the opportunity to view an ultrasound and listen to the child's heartbeat, if possible.

As a result, Indiana's abortion rate has dropped for eight consecutive years, down to 7,277 in 2016 compared to 16,505 in 1980. Statistics show that abortion rates in countries where abortions are illegal are relatively the same as in countries where they are legal, indicating that banning the procedure does very little to prevent women from seeking it. Additionally, the mortality rate of mothers receiving abortions in countries where it is illegal is significantly higher.

Indiana acknowledges the pro-choice ruling of the United States Supreme Court, but remains committed to leading the way in the effort to fight for the rights of the unborn by empowering women to choose life. So will I. [14]

”
—Jared Thomas for Congress[19]

Policy stances

Immigration

Republican Party Jim Baird: "I think we gotta have compassion for those young people who came into the country,” said Baird, speaking of the children who came to the United States without any choice about immigrating. “There are some proposals that deserve some merit, including ways that propose that we let those folks earn the right to citizenship. And those have been proposed since 2001 and I think those deserve additional review."[20]

Republican Party Steve Braun: "President Trump needs conservative leaders to help him put America first. That includes shutting down illegal immigration and securing our borders. We are a nation of immigrants, and the diverse makeup of our social fabric has contributed to America’s greatness for over 240 years. Unfortunately, our immigration system has become dysfunctional and jeopardizes the safety of the law-abiding people who live here legally. We must secure our borders to end the influx of illegal immigrants and drugs that pour across our southern border. I support President Donald Trump’s efforts to ensure that current immigration laws are enforced. Immigration reform is a complex issue, and it is vital to our national interests that we fix this broken system."[21]

Republican Party Diego Morales: "I respect the rule of law, and if DACA recipients want a chance at the American Dream, they need to get back at the back of the line and apply for citizenship...Just exactly, the way I did it."[20]

Endorsements

Republican candidate endorsements
Endorsement Date Braun Morales Baird
State figures
State Sen. Rick Niemeyer (R)[22] April 25, 2018 ✔
State Rep. Heath VanNatter (R)[22] April 25, 2018 ✔
State Rep. Sharon Negele (R)[23] March 6, 2018 ✔
Former state Sen. Brandt Hershman (R)[24] February 22, 2018 ✔
Former state Rep. Randy Truitt (R)[24] February 22, 2018 ✔
State Sen. Randy Head (R)[25] January 17, 2018 ✔
Former state Sen. Tom Weatherwax (R)[25] January 17, 2018 ✔
Former state Rep. Rich McClain (R)[25] January 17, 2018 ✔
Former Republican Party of Indiana Chairman Rex Early[26] Unknown ✔
Local figures
Kokomo Councilman Tim Miklik[22] April 25, 2018 ✔
Frankfort Mayor Chris McBarnes[22] April 25, 2018 ✔
Hendricks County Commissioner Matt Whetstone[27] March 15, 2018 ✔
Hendricks County Councilor Caleb Brown[27] March 15, 2018 ✔
Hendricks County Councilor Jay Puckett[27] March 15, 2018 ✔
Tippecanoe County Commissioner Tom Murtaugh (R)[24] February 22, 2018 ✔
Organizations
Indiana Farm Bureau Elect PAC[28] April 26, 2018 ✔
Indiana Chamber of Commerce[29] April 17, 2018 ✔
Indiana Right to Life[30] April 2, 2018 ✔
With Honor[31] March 15, 2018 ✔
SikhsPAC[32] Unknown ✔

Campaign finance

The table below contains data from FEC Quarterly April 2018 reports with information on all funds raised and spent since the beginning of the 2017-2018 campaign cycle on January 1, 2017. It includes only candidates who had reported at least $10,000 in campaign contributions as of March 31, 2018.

Satellite spending

Citizens for a Strong America

As of May 4, 2018, Citizens for a Strong America reported spending $227,188 in opposition to the candidacy of Diego Morales (R).[33] The organization sent out mailers in the weeks leading up to the campaign which disputed Morales' statements about his previous work experience, including his time working for then-Gov. Mike Pence (R).[34]

Citizens for a Strong America was founded in 2017 by former Donald Trump campaign staffer James Johnson.[35] Its mission is "to provide Republican candidates with a ready to go professional door to door canvasing team."[36]

Campaign tactics and strategies

Campaign advertisements

Republican Party Steve Braun

Support
"2" - Braun campaign ad, released March 14, 2018
"One Time" - Braun campaign ad, released February 21, 2018


Republican Party Diego Morales

Support
"Voice" - Morales campaign ad, released March 23, 2018
"Champion" - Morales campaign ad, released February 21, 2018
"Hardworking Hoosier" - Morales campaign ad, released January 26, 2018


Online presence

May 7, 2018

The following social media statistics were compiled on May 7, 2018.

Facebook Twitter
Candidate Followers Likes Comments on Last Ten Posts Followers Following Tweets
Republican Party Baird 5,605 5,175 18 314 137 484
Republican Party Braun 7,552 7,541 8 597 386 225
Republican Party Morales 5,312 5,282 6 2,338 2,261 6,149
Republican Party Thomas 9,881 9,919 104 956 995 1,055

April 9, 2018

The following social media statistics were compiled on April 9, 2018.

Facebook Twitter
Candidate Followers Likes Comments on Last Ten Posts Followers Following Tweets
Republican Party Baird 5,072 5,501 35 296 138 456
Republican Party Braun 7,527 7,535 31 595 377 166
Republican Party Morales 5,212 5,191 17 2,288 2,270 6,052
Republican Party Thomas 8,768 8,737 14 933 993 1,016


March 10, 2018

The following social media statistics were compiled on March 10, 2018.

Facebook Twitter
Candidate Followers Likes Comments on Last Ten Posts Followers Following Tweets
Republican Party Baird 5,185 4,758 128 284 135 439
Republican Party Braun 7,142 7,148 6 563 372 136
Republican Party Morales 5,149 5,136 16 2,212 2,278 6,005

Race ratings

See also: Race rating definitions and methods
Race ratings: Indiana's 4th Congressional District election, 2018
Race tracker Race ratings
October 30, 2018 October 23, 2018October 16, 2018October 9, 2018
The Cook Political Report Solid Republican Solid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid Republican
Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales Solid Republican Solid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid Republican
Larry J. Sabato's Crystal Ball Safe Republican Safe RepublicanSafe RepublicanSafe Republican
Note: Ballotpedia updates external race ratings every two weeks throughout the election season.

Timeline

  • March 24, 2018: The seven candidates who filed for the primary appear at a candidate forum in Lafayette.[37]

District election history

2016

See also: Indiana's 4th Congressional District election, 2016

Heading into the election, Ballotpedia rated this race as safely Republican. Incumbent Todd Rokita (R) defeated John Dale (D) and Steven Mayoras (L) in the general election on November 8, 2016. Rokita withdrew from the race on July 15, 2016, in order to run for governor of Indiana following a ballot vacancy. Rokita was not chosen to fill that vacancy, prompting him to once again seek re-election to his House seat. Republican committee members decided on August 13 to reinstate Rokita on the ballot.[38] Rokita defeated Kevin Grant in the Republican primary.[39][40][41][42]

U.S. House, Indiana District 4 General Election, 2016
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngTodd Rokita Incumbent 64.6% 193,412
     Democratic John Dale 30.5% 91,256
     Libertarian Steven Mayoras 4.9% 14,766
Total Votes 299,434
Source: Indiana Division of Elections


U.S. House, Indiana District 4 Republican Primary, 2016
Candidate Vote % Votes
Green check mark transparent.pngTodd Rokita Incumbent 69.3% 86,051
Kevin Grant 30.7% 38,200
Total Votes 124,251
Source: Indiana Secretary of State

2014

See also: Indiana's 4th Congressional District elections, 2014

The 4th Congressional District of Indiana held an election for the U.S. House of Representatives on November 4, 2014. Incumbent Todd Rokita (R) defeated challenger John Dale (D) in the general election.

U.S. House, Indiana District 4 General Election, 2014
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngTodd Rokita Incumbent 66.9% 94,998
     Democratic John Dale 33.1% 47,056
Total Votes 142,054
Source: Indiana Secretary of State Official Results

General election candidates


May 6, 2014, primary results

Republican Party Republican Primary

Democratic Party Democratic Primary


2012

See also: Indiana's 4th Congressional District elections, 2012

The 4th Congressional District of Indiana held an election for the U.S. House of Representatives on November 6, 2012, in which incumbent Todd Rokita (R) won re-election. He defeated Tara Nelson (D) and Benjamin J. Gehlhausen (L) in the general election.[44]

U.S. House, Indiana District 4 General Election, 2012
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngTodd Rokita Incumbent 62% 168,688
     Democratic Tara Nelson 34.2% 93,015
     Libertarian Benjamin J. Gehlhausen 3.9% 10,565
Total Votes 272,268
Source: Indiana Secretary of State "House of Representatives Election Results"

2010

On November 2, 2010, Todd Rokita won election to the United States House. He defeated David Sanders (D) and John Duncan (L) in the general election.[45]

U.S. House, Indiana District 4 General Election, 2010
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngTodd Rokita 68.6% 138,732
     Democratic David Sanders 26.3% 53,167
     Libertarian John Duncan 5.2% 10,423
Total Votes 202,322

2008

On November 4, 2008, Steve Buyer won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Nels Ackerson (D) in the general election.[46]

U.S. House, Indiana District 4 General Election, 2008
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngSteve Buyer incumbent 59.9% 192,526
     Democratic Nels Ackerson 40.1% 129,038
Total Votes 321,564

2006

On November 7, 2006, Steve Buyer won re-election to the United States House. He defeated David Sanders (D) in the general election.[47]

U.S. House, Indiana District 4 General Election, 2006
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngSteve Buyer incumbent 62.4% 111,057
     Democratic David Sanders 37.6% 66,986
Total Votes 178,043

2004

On November 2, 2004, Steve Buyer won re-election to the United States House. He defeated David Sanders (D) and Kevin R. Fleming (L) in the general election.[48]

U.S. House, Indiana District 4 General Election, 2004
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngSteve Buyer incumbent 69.5% 190,445
     Democratic David Sanders 28.3% 77,574
     Libertarian Kevin R. Fleming 2.2% 6,117
Total Votes 274,136

2002

On November 5, 2002, Steve Buyer won election to the United States House. He defeated Bill Abbott (D) and Jerry L. Susong (L) in the general election.[49]

U.S. House, Indiana District 4 General Election, 2002
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngSteve Buyer 71.4% 112,760
     Democratic Bill Abbott 26.1% 41,314
     Libertarian Jerry L. Susong 2.5% 3,934
Total Votes 158,008

2000

On November 7, 2000, Mark E. Souder won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Michael (Mike) Dewayne Foster (D) and Michael Donlan (L) in the general election.[50]

U.S. House, Indiana District 4 General Election, 2000
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Democratic Green check mark transparent.pngMark E. Souder incumbent 62.3% 131,051
     Republican Michael (Mike) Dewayne Foster 35.4% 74,492
     Libertarian Michael Donlan 2.3% 4,887
Total Votes 210,430

District analysis

See also: The Cook Political Report's Partisan Voter Index
See also: FiveThirtyEight's elasticity scores

The 2017 Cook Partisan Voter Index for this district was R+17, meaning that in the previous two presidential elections, this district's results were 17 percentage points more Republican than the national average. This made Indiana's 4th Congressional District the 69th most Republican nationally.[51]

FiveThirtyEight's September 2018 elasticity score for states and congressional districts measured "how sensitive it is to changes in the national political environment." This district's elasticity score was 0.99. This means that for every 1 point the national political mood moved toward a party, the district was expected to move 0.99 points toward that party.[52]

State overview

Partisan control

This section details the partisan control of federal and state positions in Indiana heading into the 2018 elections.

Congressional delegation

State executives

  • As of May 2018, Republicans held seven of 14 state executive positions, and seven positions were held by nonpartisan or independent officials.
  • The governor of Indiana was Republican Eric Holcomb.

State legislature

  • Republicans controlled both chambers of the Indiana General Assembly. They had a 70-30 majority in the state House and a 41-9 majority in the state Senate.

Trifecta status

  • Indiana was a Republican trifecta, meaning the Republican Party held control of the governorship and both chambers of the state legislature.

2018 elections

See also: Indiana elections, 2018

Indiana held elections for the following positions in 2018:

Demographics

Demographic data for Indiana
 IndianaU.S.
Total population:6,612,768316,515,021
Land area (sq mi):35,8263,531,905
Race and ethnicity**
White:84.2%73.6%
Black/African American:9.2%12.6%
Asian:1.9%5.1%
Native American:0.2%0.8%
Pacific Islander:0%0.2%
Two or more:2.2%3%
Hispanic/Latino:6.4%17.1%
Education
High school graduation rate:87.8%86.7%
College graduation rate:24.1%29.8%
Income
Median household income:$49,255$53,889
Persons below poverty level:18.4%11.3%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2010-2015)
Click here for more information on the 2020 census and here for more on its impact on the redistricting process in Indiana.
**Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.

As of July 2016, Indiana had a population of approximately 6,600,000 people, with its three largest cities being Indianapolis (pop. est. 856,000), Fort Wayne (pop. est. 265,000), and Evansville (pop. est. 119,000).[53][54] The chart on the right shows demographic information for Indiana from 2010 to 2015.

State election history

This section provides an overview of federal and state elections in Indiana from 2000 to 2016. All data comes from the Indiana Secretary of State.[55]

Historical elections

Presidential elections

This chart shows the results of the presidential election in Indiana every year from 2000 to 2016.

Election results (President of the United States), Indiana 2000-2016
Year First-place candidate First-place candidate votes (%) Second-place candidate Second-place candidate votes (%) Margin of victory (%)
2016 Republican Party Donald Trump 56.8% Democratic Party Hillary Clinton 37.9% 18.9%
2012 Republican Party Mitt Romney 54.1% Democratic Party Barack Obama 43.9% 10.2%
2008 Democratic Party Barack Obama 50.0% Republican Party John McCain 48.9% 1.1%
2004 Republican Party George W. Bush 59.9% Democratic Party John Kerry 39.3% 20.6%
2000 Republican Party George W. Bush 56.7% Democratic Party Al Gore 41.0% 15.7%

U.S. Senate elections, 2000-2016

This chart shows the results of U.S. Senate races in Indiana from 2000 to 2016. Every state has two Senate seats, and each seat goes up for election every six years. The terms of the seats are staggered so that roughly one-third of the seats are up every two years.

Election results (U.S. Senator), Indiana 2000-2016
Year First-place candidate First-place candidate votes (%) Second-place candidate Second-place candidate votes (%) Margin of victory (%)
2016 Republican Party Todd Young 52.1% Democratic Party Evan Bayh 42.4% 9.7%
2012 Democratic Party Joe Donnelly 50.0% Republican Party Richard Mourdock 44.3% 5.7%
2010 Republican Party Dan Coats 54.6% Democratic Party Brad Ellsworth 40.0% 14.6%
2006 Republican Party Richard Lugar 87.3% Libertarian Party Steve Osborn 12.6% 74.7%
2004 Democratic Party Evan Bayh 61.7% Republican Party Marvin Scott 37.2% 24.5%
2000 Republican Party Richard Lugar 66.5% Democratic Party David Johnson 31.9% 34.6%

Gubernatorial elections, 2000-2016

This chart shows the results of the four gubernatorial elections held between 2000 and 2016. Gubernatorial elections are held every four years in Indiana.

Election results (Governor), Indiana 2000-2016
Year First-place candidate First-place candidate votes (%) Second-place candidate Second-place candidate votes (%) Margin of victory (%)
2016 Republican Party Eric Holcomb 51.4% Democratic Party John R. Gregg 45.4% 6.0%
2012 Republican Party Mike Pence 50.0% Democratic Party John R. Gregg 46.6% 3.4%
2008 Republican Party Mitch Daniels 57.8% Democratic Party Jill Long Thompson 40.1% 17.7%
2004 Republican Party Mitch Daniels 53.2% Democratic Party Joe Kernan 45.5% 7.7%
2000 Democratic Party Frank O'Bannon 56.6% Republican Party David M. McIntosh 41.7% 14.9%

Congressional delegation, 2000-2016

This chart shows the number of Democrats and Republicans who were elected to represent Indiana in the U.S. House from 2000 to 2016. Elections for U.S. House seats are held every two years.

Congressional delegation, Indiana 2000-2016
Year Republicans Republicans (%) Democrats Democrats (%) Balance of power
2016 Republican Party 7 77.8% Democratic Party 2 22.2% R+5
2014 Republican Party 7 77.8% Democratic Party 2 22.2% R+5
2012 Republican Party 6 66.7% Democratic Party 3 33.3% R+3
2010 Republican Party 4 44.4% Democratic Party 5 55.6% D+1
2008 Republican Party 4 44.4% Democratic Party 5 55.6% D+1
2006 Republican Party 7 77.8% Democratic Party 2 22.2% R+5
2004 Republican Party 6 66.7% Democratic Party 3 33.3% R+3
2002 Republican Party 6 66.7% Democratic Party 3 33.3% R+3
2000 Republican Party 6 66.7% Democratic Party 3 33.3% R+3

Trifectas, 1992-2017

A state government trifecta occurs when one party controls both chambers of the state legislature and the governor's office.

Indiana Party Control: 1992-2025
No Democratic trifectas  •  Seventeen years of Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Governor D D D D D D D D D D D D D R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R
Senate R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R
House D D D R R D D D D D D D D R R D D D D R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R


See also

Footnotes

  1. ↑ Indiana Election Division, "Indiana Election Results," accessed May 24, 2018
  2. ↑ Indy Star, "Rep. Todd Rokita embraces Trump as he launches Indiana Senate bid," August 8, 2017
  3. ↑ Steve Braun for Congress, "Meet Steve," accessed May 4, 2018
  4. ↑ LinkedIn, "Diego Morales," accessed May 4, 2018
  5. ↑ IndyStar, "Former Pence aides trade words over 'racially charged' mailers in congressional race," April 29, 2018
  6. ↑ Journal & Courier, "In highly conservative 4th District, Trump is seen as asset," March 24, 2018
  7. ↑ Facebook, "Conservative Republican Jim Baird," November 16, 2017
  8. ↑ Banner Graphic, "Republican Jim Baird announces run for District 4 seat in U.S. Congress," October 19, 2017
  9. ↑ Elect Jim Baird, "Meet Jim," accessed March 10, 2018
  10. ↑ Chicago Tribune, "Former Indiana agency head announces bid for Congress," September 5, 2017
  11. ↑ Steve Braun for Congress, "Home," accessed March 10, 2018
  12. ↑ The Statehouse File, "Former Pence adviser to run for Rokita’s empty seat," August 10, 2017
  13. ↑ Diego for Congress, "Home," accessed March 10, 2018
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 14.2 14.3 14.4 14.5 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
  15. ↑ Facebook, "Conservative Republican Jim Baird," November 16, 2017
  16. ↑ Steve Braun for Congress, "Issues," accessed March 10, 2018
  17. ↑ Kevin Grant for Congress, "Kevin Grant: On the Issues," October 23, 2017
  18. ↑ Tim Radice for Congress, "Issues," accessed March 10, 2018
  19. ↑ Jared Thomas for Congress, "Issues," accessed March 10, 2018
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 The Exponent, "4th District Republican candidates sound off at debate," March 26, 2018
  21. ↑ Steve Braun for Congress, "Immigration," accessed March 29, 2018
  22. ↑ 22.0 22.1 22.2 22.3 Steve Braun for Congress, "Four Conservative Leaders Endorse Steve Braun for Congress," April 25, 2018
  23. ↑ Facebook, "Steve Braun," March 6, 2018
  24. ↑ 24.0 24.1 24.2 Steve Braun for Congress, "TIPPECANOE COUNTY LEADERS ENDORSE CONSERVATIVE BUSINESSMAN STEVE BRAUN FOR CONGRESS," February 22, 2018
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 25.2 Facebook, "Steve Braun," January 17, 2018
  26. ↑ Babushahi, "SikhsPAC hosts fundrasing event for Diego Morales," December 19, 2017
  27. ↑ 27.0 27.1 27.2 Steve Braun for Congress, "Eight Hendricks County Leaders Endorse Steve Braun for Congress," March 15, 2018
  28. ↑ Facebook, "Steve Braun," April 26, 2018
  29. ↑ Steve Braun for Congress, "Indiana Chamber Endorses Steve Braun for Congress in the 4th District," April 17, 2018
  30. ↑ Facebook, "Elect Jim Baird," April 2, 2018
  31. ↑ With Honor, "Press Release: With Honor Endorses Nine Principled Veterans for Congress," March 15, 2018
  32. ↑ Facebook, "SikhsPAC," January 26, 2018
  33. ↑ OpenSecrets, "Citizens for a Strong America - Independent Expenditures," accessed May 4, 2018
  34. ↑ IndyStar, "Former Pence aides trade words over 'racially charged' mailers in congressional race," April 29, 2018
  35. ↑ Citizens for a Strong America, "Founder," accessed May 4, 2018
  36. ↑ Citizens for a Strong America, "Home," accessed May 4, 2018
  37. ↑ WLFI, "4TH DISTRICT CONGRESSIONAL DEBATE AT FAITH COMMUNITY CENTER," March 25, 2018
  38. ↑ KLTV, "The Latest: Pence praises GOP replacement choice," July 26, 2016
  39. ↑ Indiana Secretary of State, "May 3, 2016 Primary Election," accessed February 8, 2016
  40. ↑ The New York Times, "Indiana Primary Results," May 3, 2016
  41. ↑ WBAA, "Brooks, Rokita Back On Congressional Ballots Following Weekend Caucuses," August 14, 2016
  42. ↑ Indiana Secretary of State, "November 8, 2016 General Election," accessed September 6, 2016
  43. ↑ 43.0 43.1 43.2 43.3 43.4 43.5 Indiana Secretary of State, "Primary Candidate List," accessed February 5, 2014
  44. ↑ Politico, "2012 Election Map, Indiana"
  45. ↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 2, 2010," accessed March 28, 2013
  46. ↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 4, 2008," accessed March 28, 2013
  47. ↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 7, 2006," accessed March 28, 2013
  48. ↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 2, 2004," accessed March 28, 2013
  49. ↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 5, 2002," accessed March 28, 2013
  50. ↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 7, 2000," accessed March 28, 2013
  51. ↑ Cook Political Report, "Introducing the 2017 Cook Political Report Partisan Voter Index," April 7, 2017
  52. ↑ FiveThirtyEight, "Election Update: The Most (And Least) Elastic States And Districts," September 6, 2018
  53. ↑ Indiana Demographics, "Indiana Cities by Population," accessed January 9, 2018
  54. ↑ U.S. Census Bureau, "Quickfacts Indiana," accessed January 9, 2018
  55. ↑ Indiana Secretary of State, "Election Results," accessed September 5, 2018


Indiana's current delegation to the United States Congress
Senators
Jim Banks (R)
Todd Young (R)
Representatives
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
Jim Baird (R)
District 5
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District 8
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