J.D. Ford Becomes First Dem to Flip Ind. House Seat in Two Decades

CARMEL, Ind. — In a historic victory, Congressman-Elect J.D. Ford became the first Democrat to flip a House seat from red to blue in more than two decades in Indiana's 5th Congressional District, defeating incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz. Ford's win flips a Trump +17 district previously held by Republicans for thirty years and makes him the first openly LGBTQ+ person elected to Congress from Indiana.

"Tonight, Hoosiers made history, and they sent a message that will be heard far beyond Indiana's 5th District," Ford said. "This victory belongs to every person who has felt ignored by Washington, every family struggling to make ends meet and every voter who believed that change was possible. Hoosiers are demanding leaders who put people ahead of powerful interests and deliver results that make their lives better. I’m truly honored that Hoosiers have trusted me to be the person who fights for that change, and that's exactly what I intend to do."

Ford centered his campaign on lowering everyday costs, protecting access to affordable healthcare and restoring accountability in Washington.

"Hoosiers are working harder, paying more and getting less in return," Ford said. "Families are struggling to afford groceries, utilities and healthcare while powerful corporations and wealthy interests continue to get ahead in Washington. That's not the government Hoosiers deserve. I'm going to Congress to fight corruption, stand up to corporate interests and make sure the decisions being made in Washington put people and their families first."

Ford's victory represents a significant shift in a district represented by Republicans for more than three decades. Hamilton County, the suburban heart of the district, swung 26 points toward Democrats in four years.

"Tonight, voters proved that no seat belongs to a political party. It belongs to the people," Ford said. "Whether you voted for me or not, I will fight for you. I will listen, show up and never forget who sent me to Washington. To every voter, volunteer and supporter who made this historic victory possible, thank you. Tonight, we celebrate what Hoosiers made possible. Tomorrow, we begin the work of delivering the change they voted for."

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About J.D.: J.D. Ford is running for Congress in Indiana's 5th Congressional District. He grew up in a working-class family as the son of a union truck driver and an assisted living administrator, with grandparents who served as local officials. J.D. learned early that public service is about people, not power. He served two terms in the Indiana State Senate, where he fought to lower the cost of lifesaving medication, strengthen public education, and ensure every Hoosier gets a fair shot. He's running to bring a working-class perspective to Washington and make life more affordable for every Hoosier.