At least 11 Indiana Republicans faced threats or swatting attacks due to pressure from Trump during redistricting

In recent weeks, at least eleven Republican lawmakers in Indiana have faced swatting incidents and various threats following public pressure from former President Donald Trump to approve a congressional map favoring Republicans. On November 16, Trump launched a detailed social media attack against Indiana state Senate Republicans for not supporting the initiative, specifically naming two state senators and Governor Mike Braun. The following day, he announced he would "strongly" oppose anyone resisting the plan.

Indiana House members began reviewing redistricting legislation on Monday, formally presenting the new map, while the state Senate is expected to follow suit next week. After Trumps criticism, several Senate Republicans were reportedly targeted with swatting attacks.

Senator Mike Bohacek, who opposes the redistricting plan, revealed on Monday that he received a bomb threat last week. Bohacek stated, "This recent pattern of threatening behavior and intimidation attempts are not only concerning, but also illegal. I hope to see justice for this type of behavior." He also noted that he intends to vote against redistricting, following Trump's derogatory comment about Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and mentioned that the threat coincided with this timing.

Senator Jean Leising reported receiving a pipe bomb threat over the weekend. She commented, I believe these threats are a result of the redistricting pressure on Indiana. Threats to public officials are unacceptable, and I am confident law enforcement will pursue those responsible." Leising affirmed that these threats will not prevent her from serving her community. Indiana State Police confirmed awareness of the incident.

Several other lawmakers have also been targeted since Trumps social media posts, which followed initial reluctance among state Republicans to pursue midcycle redistricting. Trump criticized the Indiana Senate for insufficient GOP support to pass the proposed maps.

Senator Greg Goode experienced a swatting attack shortly after being named in Trumps post, which also mentioned Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray. State police confirmed investigations into multiple swatting incidents. Swatting involves false emergency calls designed to provoke a police response and intimidate the targets.

On November 19, Senators Dan Dernulc and Rick Niemeyer were victims of attempted swatting attacks, along with Senator Greg Walker. The following day, Senator Spencer Deery reported a thwarted swatting attempt, noting it was preceded by an unpaid pizza delivery meant to intimidate. Senator Kyle Walker also disclosed attempts to threaten him and his family, emphasizing that such acts are illegal and counterproductive.

Senator Linda Rogers described several intimidation incidents, while Senator Andy Zay reported a bomb threat at his business. Zay condemned excessive political rhetoric but did not directly blame Trump. He shared that he had been in frequent communication with White House staff about messaging and redistricting efforts.

Governor Braun indicated he was also targeted by threats and stated, Enough is enough. These threats to lawmakers, including my family and me, need to stop. House Speaker Todd Huston and Democratic leader Phil GiaQuinta issued a joint statement condemning threats and swatting as abhorrent and completely unacceptable, calling for an end to such actions as a means of political disagreement.

Indiana is among several Republican-led states pursuing midcycle redistricting this year, while California recently approved a Democratic-drawn map and other blue states have expressed interest in redistricting initiatives.

Author: Sophia Brooks