Ford challenges Spartz for 5th Congressional District, says redistricting fight motivated move

Indiana State Senator J.D. Ford (D-District 29) launched a campaign Wednesday to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz in the state’s 5th Congressional District. 

Ford, who represents parts of Carmel, Indianapolis and Zionsville, said his decision to run was directly inspired by the recent redistricting controversy at the Indiana Statehouse.The attempt by the Trump administration to redraw Indiana's congressional maps mid-decade ultimately failed. 

“I couldn't stand by the sidelines anymore, and I wanted to throw my hat in the ring and give Hoosiers a real option in this race,” he said.

The redistricting effort, pushed by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance to aid Republican chances in the 2026 midterms, was defeated in the Indiana Senate last month. Ford noted the administration’s pressure campaign during his announcement.

Indiana's 5th District covers Hamilton, Madison, Delaware, Grant, Tipton and most of Howard counties. 

Incumbent Spartz filed for reelection this week. Spartz announced in 2023 she would not run for reelection, only to reverse course and win a third term in 2024. In December 2024, she announced she would decline all committee assignments in the U.S. House. 

“Our nation will soon face significant fiscal challenges, and my extensive expertise on fiscal issues and health care will be greatly needed in Congress,” Spartz said in a statement regarding her reelection bid. 

Ford, the first openly gay lawmaker in the Indiana General Assembly, was elected to the State Senate in 2018. He faces primary competition from IU Indianapolis professor Todd Shelton, according to an Indiana Election Division report Wednesday.

Republican Scott A. King has also filed to challenge Spartz in the primary. The filing deadline for candidates is Feb. 6.

Government reporter Caroline Beck contributed to this story. 

Eric Weddle is WFYI's education editor. Contact Eric at eweddle@wfyi.org or follow him on X at @ericweddle.