Burton reacts to Governor Braun calling a special session to redistrict Indiana’s Congressional maps
INDIANAPOLIS – State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) released the following statement today in response to Gov. Braun’s announcement of a special session:
“Once again, the Statehouse is putting politics before people. Instead of tackling the real problems facing Hoosiers, legislative leaders are racing to redraw political lines and score political points. Meanwhile, families are still struggling with rising utility costs, unaffordable child and health care, a broken DCS system, limited access to quality housing and the ongoing harm caused by Senate Enrolled Act 1.
“If we set the precedent of ignoring process and transparency when it comes to redistricting, what’s next?
“And while some are focused on reshaping maps, I can’t help but think about the questions I hear from people back home: ‘What about the cost of eggs?’ Hoosiers believed in a message that spoke to the reality of increased costs and the promise of relief. But instead of addressing those everyday struggles, I’m being asked to vote on redrawing Congressional maps mid-decade, before we even consider measures to provide relief to municipalities, lower energy costs, improve housing, expand child care access, fix health care, adequately fund public schools, guarantee school safety, or ensure our water is safe to drink.
“I wasn’t elected to engage in political theater. My neighbors in District 77 sent me here to deliver relief, answers and proactive legislation – not to waste time on partisan distractions.
“Now that a special session has been called, let’s use this opportunity to fix what’s broken – starting with SEA 1 – and refocus on the issues that actually impact Hoosiers’ daily lives. Our communities deserve leaders who prioritize solutions over self-interest.
“I’ll continue fighting for policies that make life in Indiana more affordable, stable and fair for working families.
“To continue this dialogue, I look forward to hearing from constituents at my upcoming Town Hall on Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 6:30 p.m. CST at the EPL McCollough Branch, where I will be joined by Former Indiana Senator and Former U.S. Ambassador to The Holy See, Joe Donnelly.”
