Nine-term Democrat faces primary challenge in midterm elections: ‘Status quo is not working’

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Democratic strategist George Hornedo launched a campaign for Indiana’s 7th Congressional District, teeing up a primary against longtime Rep. Andre Carson (D-IN).

“For nearly 20 years, we’ve had the same leadership in Washington. That place, those people supposedly representing us, aren’t working for Indianapolis,” Hornedo said in a video announcement. 

“The status quo is not working. Indy deserves leaders that fight for results, not just reelection. We need better players on the field,” he added.

Carson, a nine-term congressman, has easily won all his elections since first being elected in 2008. He won his 2024 race by 40 points over his Republican challenger. The district encompasses downtown Indianapolis and many northern suburbs.

“I respect congressman Carson, but after nearly two decades in office, too many folks are still struggling. Why would we double down on the same people that got us into this mess?” Hornedo said.

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Hornedo heads a political strategy firm in Indiana. He worked on former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign.

At least three other longtime House Democrats are facing primary challenges in the 2026 midterm elections, notably from younger candidates. Progressive influencer Kat Abughazaleh launched a bid to unseat longtime Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL).

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