Rep. Andre Carson (D-Ind.) may be the latest senior Democrat to face a young primary challenger disappointed at how Washington is combating the Trump administration.
George Hornedo, a 34-year-old who has long ties with the state party, is “exploring a run” against Carson with a campaign that could launch next week. Carson has served in Congress representing Indiana’s 7th District for nine terms.
Hornedo accused Carson of being inactive in his job at a time when Democrats should take action. The potential candidate added that he wants Carson to do more as just one of two Democrats in the state delegation.
“Having a warm body in an empty suit is one thing if we were in a blue state and had this strong congressional delegation with other good Democrats in there, but that’s not the case here in Indiana,” Hornedo told us.
Hornedo also attacked Democratic leadership for doing a “piss poor” job of standing up to President Donald Trump. This mirrors similar rhetoric from other Democratic primary challengers who announced campaigns against Reps. Jan Schakowski (D-Ill.) and Brad Sherman (D-Calif.).
“Right now, [Hakeem Jeffries] is acting like a manager of the caucus, as opposed to a leader of the caucus,” Hornedo said. “I’m not sure exactly what he’s waiting on, but I’d love to see a little bit more blood lust.”
Caroline Ellert, Carson’s spokesperson, touted his history of passing bipartisan bills, background in law enforcement and focus on bringing back infrastructure projects to Indianapolis.
“He remains a powerful figure in the Democratic Party as a Midwestern voice who is able to push progressive legislation while still finding bipartisan, common-sense solutions when possible to deliver for Indianapolis residents,” Ellert said.
