Republican Parent of a Child with Down Syndrome Opposes Redistricting Following Trump’s Ableist Remarks | Indiana
Indiana Lawmaker Defies Trump on Redistricting Amid Controversy
In a bold move, an Indiana Republican legislator, whose child has Down syndrome, has vowed to reject any attempts to redraw the state’s congressional map to favor his party. This stance follows recent disparaging remarks made by former President Donald Trump towards individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Bohacek’s Advocacy for Disability Rights
Michael Bohacek, a member of Indiana’s state senate, proclaimed on social media that he has been a steadfast advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities since his daughter was born with Down syndrome. His post condemned Trump’s use of ableist language to insult Minnesota’s Democratic Governor Tim Walz, asserting, “His choice of words have consequences.”
Opposition to Partisan Redistricting
Bohacek announced, “I will be voting NO on redistricting… perhaps he can use the next 10 months to convince voters that his policies and behavior deserve a congressional majority.” This statement counters pressure from Trump’s administration on Indiana lawmakers to redraw congressional district boundaries in a bid to secure more Republican seats ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Indiana legislators are set to consider this partisan redistricting proposal later in December. However, state senate leaders have indicated that there’s insufficient support within the chamber for a redistricting plan to pass.
Trump’s Influence and Threats
In mid-November, Trump urged Republican state senators in Indiana to face primary challenges if they oppose redistricting, stating that their decisions could “potentially impact America itself.” He emphasized, “They should DO THEIR JOB, AND DO IT NOW! If not, let’s get them out of office.”
Following Trump’s remarks, several Indiana Republican officials reported experiencing swatting attacks, where false emergency reports aim to provoke a heavy law enforcement response. State Senator Jean Leising also reported receiving threats, including a pipe bomb threat, which she attributed to the escalating political tensions around redistricting.
Responses from Indiana Officials
Governor Mike Braun, who supports the redistricting effort, revealed he too has received threats, stating, “Enough is enough.” He called for an end to threats against lawmakers amid a contentious political climate.
Bohacek’s defiance follows another post by Trump that exacerbated tensions, in which the former president called for a “permanent pause” on immigration from certain countries and used a derogatory term to describe Walz.
Public Reaction
Many on social media applauded Bohacek’s stance against Trump. However, some criticized the notion that it took a personal experience to prompt his opposition. Comments included, “You should care about people even when it hasn’t affected you directly.”
Since taking office in November 2016, during Trump’s initial presidential campaign, Bohacek has navigated the complexities of Indiana politics, where both major parties wrestle with the implications of partisan redistricting.
