Seven candidates are running for the seat in Indiana’s 7th Congressional District, which covers most of Indianapolis. Rep. André Carson, a Democrat, currently holds this seat.
As a part of a Q&A series, District 7 candidates shared their backgrounds, priorities and perspectives on Indianapolis ahead of the May 5 primary. Candidates were asked the same questions.
Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.
Can you share why your are running for re-election in Congress?
André Carson: I’m running to defeat Donald Trump’s extreme agenda and make life more affordable for Indianapolis residents. I helped pass cost savings for Indianapolis residents — like a $35 a month cap on the cost of insulin and additional health care costs savings — and historic investments in our streets, highways, and sidewalks. I am running to stop Donald Trump and get our country back on the right track.
Which past experiences will help you in this role?
Carson: I’m a lifelong activist and public servant. In Congress, I’ve secured over $1 billion for Indianapolis, including the funding necessary to expand IndyGo and replace lead service lines in vulnerable communities.
My experiences growing up in Indianapolis continue to shape my work in Congress. I briefly experienced housing insecurity in my youth and am a graduate of IPS. I was born and raised in Indianapolis, and I’ll continue to fight for Indianapolis.
If you are re-elected, what will be your biggest priorities?
Carson: My priority will be to undo the damage Trump has done and build on the progress Democrats started before Trump. Democrats are set to take back the House in November, which means we will have more tools to fight Trump.
I intend to reinstate the Affordable Connectivity Program, a Democratic program that saved folks money on their internet bills. I will also work to reinstate SNAP, Medicaid, and healthcare cost savings.
Under Democrats, more people than ever had affordable health insurance, and more Black Americans than ever were insured. Trump decimated these cost savings, and I’ll immediately work to reinstate them.
As you listen to members of this community talk about what matters to them, what are they asking for from their representative?
Carson: It’s simple — our community wants their representative to represent them and their interests. My voting record speaks for itself: I work to lower costs and make life easier for Hoosiers, while making the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share.
Voters also want a representative who is from Indianapolis and who knows our city. My office hosts monthly office hours as well as events like my job fair and youth opportunities fair to regularly connect with Indy residents.
What do you love most about Indianapolis?
Carson: The people. From the friends I’ve had for years, to the people I meet every day, Indianapolis is home to some of the kindest, hardest working people you will ever meet.
Learn more at carson.house.gov.
Camike Jones is the Editor-in-Chief of the Indianapolis Recorder. Born and raised in Indianapolis, Jones has a lifelong commitment to advocacy and telling stories that represent the community.
