Republicans game the system for political pursuits

Constituents in State Senate District 46 latest victims 

The dominos continue to fall as a result of a disastrous Republican backed plan to gerrymander the Indiana State Senate. Having failed to secure a Senate District map that would ensure the election of Kevin Boehnlein, his anointed successor, State Senator Ron Grooms has come up with a new plan in an attempt to even the playing field for him in next year's election - resign and caucus Boehnlein in as his replacement.

This move is rightly drawing criticism and not just from the Democratic side of the aisle. Republican Floyd County Commissioner and State Senate candidate Shawn Carruthers slammed the maneuver:

"Voters are rightfully suspicious of political favors and maneuvers like this and many see these caucuses as rigged," he stated.

He was later joined by Republican State House of Representative candidate Charlie Moon:

"Unfortunately, there appears to be a political game that's being played," stated Moon.

Moon later added that if Boehnlein is appointed, it will give him more exposure and the ability to say that he has experience as a State Senator ahead of the primary election.

The bottom line: While Republicans play games with Groom's seat to posture for the next election, constituents in State Senate District 46 are the big loser.Not only are they the victim of partisan gerrymandering that dilutes their voice in the State House, they find themselves a torn toy being fought over by self-interested politicians who aren't focused on the community's needs.

Enough is enough. Our community needs an adult in the room ready to help position us for the tremendous opportunities that lay ahead over the next decade. It's time to come together as a community, reject extreme partisanship and false culture wars, and focus on common sense measures that help Hoosiers build a better life for them and their families - this is the Democratic Party vision for our community. 

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