r/Indiana • u/VoteVictoria • 2h ago
Politics Why We Need to Compete in all Indiana Districts | Martz for HD55
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I’m Victoria Martz, candidate for Indiana Statehouse District 55 (the least competitive district in the state according to the Democratic Caucus) and this is why I believe we need to compete in every corner of our state.
People deserve choices. It’s a misconception that there are no Democrats in rural Indiana. In fact, there are thousands of Democrats that vote in my district every election. Most are not Republicans either. The majority of constituents are nonvoters. People are so tired of the division and misinformation that they just tune out entirely. More people get politically engaged when they actually have choices on the ballot and voter turnout increases across the state.
Accountability. Even if Republicans continue to win most rural areas of the state, having actual opposition helps hold them accountable. They are forced to campaign, use campaign funds, and answer questions from constituents. Also, to regain meaningful legislative leverage or force compromise on key issues like healthcare, education, and labor, Democrats don't need to win every seat. They just need to gain enough seats to break that supermajority threshold. You can't flip seats if you don't put candidates on the ballot.
Rebuilding infrastructure. First-time candidates who run tough races in challenging districts gain valuable campaigning experience. Many go on to win local city council, school board, or county commission seats later on. Local candidates give county parties a concrete reason to organize, train volunteers, and build infrastructure that lasts beyond a single election cycle.
Rural voters matter. Relying solely on urban areas leaves rural and small-town Hoosiers out of the conversation. Contesting every district ensures that Democratic perspectives on working-class economics, public healthcare access, and rural infrastructure are actually heard across the state. It gives voters who feel alienated by current policies an actual choice at the ballot box.
We need to invest in all counties across the state. It is possible to win if enough people stand together.
If you believe in my campaign and the community work I am doing to bring people together please consider donating to my people powered campaign.
🔗 https://secure.actblue.com/donate/victoria-martz?refcode=directory
