Indiana Governor Mike Braun has announced a special legislative session to redraw congressional district boundaries, aiming to influence the 2026 midterm elections amid broader Republican efforts.

The upcoming redistricting process will be expedited, with candidate filing for the 2026 primary opening in January, leaving limited time for debate, approval, and potential legal challenges.

Legally, the special session is limited to 30 session days or 40 calendar days, with the primary goal of adjusting districts before the 2026 elections, including primaries scheduled for May.

This mid-cycle redistricting effort is unusual, as redistricting typically occurs once a decade, and is viewed as a move to sway election outcomes in favor of Republicans.

Indiana's legislative leaders have praised the existing districts drawn four years ago, citing public feedback and a desire for stability, and have historically been wary of costly midcycle redistricting.

The proposed redistricting has faced opposition from Democrats and some Republicans, with threats of legal action and concerns over the legitimacy of the process.

Incumbent Democrat Rep. André Carson, representing District 7, has expressed strong opposition, emphasizing the importance of protecting Democratic seats and fighting against potential dilution of Black voters' influence.

Indiana Democratic Party Chair Karen Tallian criticized the move as likely unconstitutional and a partisan power grab, accusing Braun of reversing previous statements and bowing to national Republican pressure.

The plan could also impact districts held by Rep. Frank Mrvan and other GOP candidates, with significant boundary changes aimed at favoring Republican candidates in upcoming elections.

Supporters argue that the current districts, last redrawn in 2021, reflect public feedback, and opponents fear that midcycle redistricting undermines fairness and legitimacy.

A Republican-led redistricting plan might target Rep. Mrvan’s district, which narrowly voted for Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024, to favor GOP candidates.

The story is developing, and further updates are expected as the legislative process unfolds, with protests and political debates intensifying around the issue.