Indiana state senator Michael Bohacek, a Republican whose daughter has Down syndrome, has pledged to vote against a congressional redistricting plan that would benefit his party, following Donald Trump's use of an ableist slur against a political opponent. Bohacek wrote on Facebook that Trump's 'choices of words have consequences' and that he would oppose the redistricting effort.
The redistricting plan, supported by Trump, aims to redraw Indiana's congressional map to give Republicans more seats in the US House ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Trump had called for primary challenges against any Republican state senator who voted against the plan, saying they should 'do their job, and do it now'.
Since Trump's post, at least nine Republican officials in Indiana have been targeted by swatting attacks, and state senator Jean Leising reported a pipe bomb threat. Governor Mike Braun, who supports redistricting, also said he received threats, calling for an end to the violence.
Bohacek's decision comes after Trump insulted Minnesota governor Tim Walz with a slur for people with intellectual disabilities, referring to him as 'seriously retarded'. Bohacek, who has served in the state senate since 2016, said he would instead focus on advocating for people with intellectual disabilities.
Indiana is among several states where partisan redistricting battles are unfolding, with Texas and California also approving new maps to benefit their respective parties.
