After much prayer and careful consideration, I have decided not to seek the Republican nomination for Congress in Indiana's 1st District in 2026.
Indiana's legislature sadly chose not to redistrict Indiana congressional map to counter Democrats' egregious gerrymandering and their counting of illegal immigrants in the census. IN-01 remains an extremely difficult seat for a Republican to compete in and win. With your help, we ran a strong race in 2022 and put this district on the map. Having been through it once, I understand the harsh reality: to win this seat, there is no margin for error.
We will only win when we are unified in our vision as Republicans. We are in a midterm environment that history tells us will be challenging, as well as a district where even President Trump fell just short in 2024. As a leader, I am not afraid to lead. I am not afraid of completing difficult tasks. I am not afraid to combat poor ideas, but I must act with great wisdom before leading a team into the battle for the heart of our country, when our own teammates have proverbially tied our hands behind our back.
We will eventually flip this seat. It will require unity and a shared vision. I am committed to developing both, as God leads.
I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported and encouraged me in 2022 and again as I explored this race. You gave generously and your confidence in my ability to serve has meant more than I can express. I cherish each friendship I've made along the way.
I will stay in touch and keep you posted on what's next. I look forward to helping our party to victory in races up and down the ballot this fall.
God bless! - JRG
