Indiana Rep. Victoria Spartz reverses decision, announces reelection bid

Indiana Representative Victoria Spartz, a Republican congresswoman, has made a significant reversal in her political plans. Approximately a year after declaring that she would not pursue reelection, Spartz announced on Monday that she has reconsidered her decision and will run again this year to represent Indiana’s 5th District.

In February 2023, Spartz initially declared her intention not to seek a third term, citing the need to allocate more time to her two high school-aged daughters. However, in a statement provided to various media outlets, she expressed the complexity of deciding between familial obligations, professional responsibilities, and service to the nation. The 45-year-old, the first Ukrainian-born member of Congress, emphasized the challenges facing the Republic and attributed her change in stance to perceived “failed leadership in Washington, D.C.”

Highlighting her understanding of challenging times due to her upbringing under tyranny, Spartz conveyed her commitment to fighting for her fellow Hoosiers and the preservation of American liberties. Addressing the issues she has actively worked on during the current legislative session, she voiced concern about the ability to deliver on those matters and emphasized the need to uphold the American dream for future generations.

Spartz had previously hinted at reconsidering her retirement from Congress in September, particularly after expressing dissatisfaction with her party’s leadership. Her criticism of then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy led to public disagreements, with McCarthy accusing her of “quitting.” In response, Spartz acknowledged the necessity to regroup and cited her party’s perceived failure to serve the people.

In her Monday statement, Spartz clarified that her decision to run again is influenced by the current state of affairs and the encouragement of many constituents. Her initial decision to step back from Congress had resulted in a crowded field of nine Republican candidates filing for the May 7 primary, according to the Indiana Secretary of State’s Office.