Holcomb signs redistricting bill, officially ending legislative map-drawing process

Indiana’s 2021 redistricting process is officially over. Gov. Eric Holcomb signed the bill creating new legislative districts into law Monday.

The maps Republicans created for themselves over the past few weeks likely eliminate any competitive Congressional districts and virtually guarantee the GOP will maintain or even grow its supermajorities in the state House and Senate.

Holcomb, who did not publicly involve himself in the process, applauded lawmakers for being “orderly and transparent.”

Join the conversation and sign up for the Indiana Two-Way. Text “Indiana” to 73224. Your comments and questions in response to our weekly text help us find the answers you need on statewide issues.

Many Hoosiers, however, argued the process wasn’t transparent. They said there wasn’t enough time after Republicans unveiled their maps for the public to fully understand and evaluate them. And they noted the only public hearings on the proposed districts were during the work day, at the Statehouse.

The new districts won’t take effect until Nov. 8, 2022 – Election Day.

Contact reporter Brandon at bsmith@ipbs.org or follow him on Twitter at @brandonjsmith5.