Northwest Indiana voters in the state's 1st Congressional District will choose between two candidates this November to represent them at the national level.
Democratic incumbent Frank J. Mrvan is seeking a fourth term in office. He's challenged by Republican Barb Regnitz.
The district encompasses the top left corner of the state and includes numerous suburban Chicago cities including Gary, Hammond and East Chicago. It also covers lakeshore cities including Portage and Michigan City. Its population is over 760,000.
U.S. House members serve two-year terms, write and vote on federal legislation, sit on committees and direct federal resources to their districts.
WFYI opened an ongoing voter survey in May, and the most common voting issues relevant to the area were data center policy, affordability and feeling disempowered.
Mrvan first took the seat in 2021, and District 1 is a traditional democratic stronghold. A Democrat has represented the district since the 1930's. But this is thought to be one of the few competitive congressional races in Indiana this year.
Regnitz is a Porter County commissioner, she is endorsed by Trump, and the Cook Political Report most recently rated the district D+1, "likely D," indicating many Indiana republicans have statistical support behind their hope they can flip it.
The race comes less than a year after state lawmakers in Indiana voted down a push from President Donald Trump to redraw the congressional districts mid-cycle, ahead of the midterms, to favor Republicans. Mrvan opposed mid-cycle redistricting effort.
The regular 10-year Indiana redistricting cycle follows the census and is scheduled for 2031.
WFYI contacted each campaign to conduct a survey. We used voter feedback to guide our questions. For candidates who did not respond, information was gathered from websites and social media for a "Top priorities" note. Candidates are listed in alphabetical order.
Frank Mrvan
Personal information provided by candidate.
Incumbent
Party: Democrat
Website: mrvanforcongress.com
Age: 57
Occupation: U.S. Representative, District 1
Residence: Highland
Notable donors: Mrvan's committee, Mrvan for Congress, raised $2,386,267 as of June 30, 2026, according to Federal Election Commission data. OpenSecrets' data shows the campaign raised $957,827 from PACs. The two largest special interest donors are American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and KPS Capital Partners.
Mrvan accepted WFYI's invitation to take a survey. WFYI fact checked statements about publicly available data.
If elected, what are your top policy priorities?
I am running for re-election to build on the progress we have made and to continue delivering practical solutions for Indiana's First District. Serving on the House Appropriations Committee has enabled me to work with colleagues from both parties and, just as importantly, to listen closely to local leaders, employers, labor, veterans, and our agricultural community about where federal resources can make the greatest difference in our region. Additionally, as Vice Chairman of the Congressional Steel Caucus, I will continue to do all I can to defend the workers of the Northwest Indiana steel industry and ensure that they can compete on a level playing field.
Many voters told us they struggle to afford food, housing and healthcare. If elected, how would you help them address those needs?
For 15 years as North Township Trustee, I worked to provide utility assistance, employment services, and nutrition benefits to families in need. That experience showed me how vital it is to keep energy, health care, and housing affordable for residents in our region. I will not back down in the fight to make life more affordable and create work and wealth in Indiana. As a Member of Congress, I will continue to support legislation and policies to lower energy and health care costs, make housing more affordable, support childcare access, reduce education costs, and boost workers' pay.
Many voters told us they don't think today's politicians listen to their constituents. Why do you think that is, and how would you address the concern?
It is an honor and a privilege to represent Indiana's 1st Congressional District in our nation's capital, and throughout my career as an elected official I have prioritized showing up, listening, and being accountable to the people of Northwest Indiana. I will continue my actions of hosting Community Conversation public events and being as available as possible to communicate and meet with constituents to address any issues of concern.
Voters also expressed concern about dysfunction in our political system. What changes can be made to ensure politics is working for the people?
My office does everything possible to work closely with all local, state, and federal offices in a bipartisan manner to address issues and solve problems on behalf of the people of Northwest Indiana. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to collaborate with all of my Congressional colleagues and with Northwest Indiana communities, institutions of higher learning, and valued non-profit partners throughout the 1st District to secure significant federal investments that strengthen public safety, drive economic growth, and support the most vulnerable in our communities.
Barb Regnitz
Candidate did not provide personal information or accept WFYI's invitation to take a survey.
Party: Republican
Website: barbregnitzforcongress.com
Age: Not verified
Occupation: Porter County Commissioner and financial planner
Residence: Valparaiso
Notable donors: Regnitz's committee, Barb Regnitz for Congress, raised $2,376,255 as of June 30, 2026, according to Federal Election Commission data. There is no donor information for Regnitz in a search on OpenSecrets.
Top priorities: Regnitz has said her priorities include education, national security and affordability. On her campaign website, she lists border security as a top issue and calls for immigration reform. Also listed are election integrity and gun rights.
