AGP Executive Report

Purdue Fort Wayne Fine Arts: A $1.3 million Shaffer-named gallery is breaking ground on campus, with an expected November 2027 opening and flexible indoor-outdoor design for student and community art shows. Trump’s Party Purge Echoes Into Indiana: The latest national jolt is Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy’s primary loss after he voted to convict Trump—another reminder that GOP loyalty tests are now survival tests, with Indiana’s own redistricting backlash cited as part of the same pattern. AI Meets Utility Bills: States including Indiana are pushing back on electricity rate hikes tied to the AI data-center boom, arguing residents are getting stuck with the tab while utilities protect profits. Indiana Policy Watch: Indiana’s “bell-to-bell” school cellphone ban is moving into full effect July 1, tightening rules for students statewide. Local Governance: Vernon’s town council is taking first steps toward cracking down on outdoor dog tethering after reported freezing and starvation deaths. Sports & Health: Aliyah Boston is out of the Fever’s first WNBA game with a lower-leg injury, while the Hoosier Lottery posted May 17 Cash 5 and Daily 3 results.

Trump’s GOP purge hits Louisiana: Sen. Bill Cassidy is out after losing the Louisiana Republican primary, setting up a June 27 runoff between Trump-backed Julia Letlow and John Fleming—another reminder that loyalty to Trump now drives survival in the party. Indiana politics context: The same Trump-redistricting fight that’s reshaped Indiana primaries is now being framed nationally as a “revenge tour,” with CNN pointing to White House operator James Blair’s behind-the-scenes push against Indiana GOP holdouts. Indiana legal spotlight: A Hendricks County jury convicted a Louisville man of sexual misconduct with a minor, with prosecutors saying he used Snapchat and other social media to groom and arrange meetings. Energy affordability pressure: Across several states, including Indiana, officials are challenging utility rate hikes tied to AI-driven power demand. Local/community notes: Volunteers packed 56,000 meals for Cuba or Haiti, and Panda Fest Indianapolis returns this weekend.

Redistricting Showdown: A nationwide redistricting fight is heating up as Republicans and Democrats race to redraw congressional maps for maximum advantage, with Texas-style aggressive tactics drawing fresh backlash and accusations of cheating and voter suppression. Indiana Health Policy: Indiana is boosting Medicaid payments to hospitals under a new state-directed payment plan approved by the feds, aiming to reward lower commercial prices and potentially cool costs for other Hoosiers. Immigration Protests: Hoosiers staged demonstrations across the state, including in Mishawaka, pushing for changes to how immigration cases are processed and detained. Public Media Cuts: Indiana Public Media is laying off staff after state and federal funding cuts. Utility Bills Pressure: Across multiple states, officials are challenging utility rate hikes tied to surging electricity demand from AI data centers. Louisiana GOP Fallout (National ripple): Trump-backed challengers advanced in Louisiana’s Senate primary, knocking out Sen. Bill Cassidy—another reminder of how Indiana’s Trump-linked political fights are playing out elsewhere.

School Accountability: Pike County School Corporation severed ties with a Pike Central High School teacher who resigned as an investigation into alleged inappropriate conduct with a student moves forward, saying it had already started termination proceedings and will fully cooperate with Indiana State Police and prosecutors. Indy 500 Spotlight: Indianapolis native Brendan Fraser is set to serve as honorary starter for the May 24 Indy 500, waving the green flag as his new D-Day film “Pressure” hits theaters shortly after. Indiana Tech/Elections: Indiana’s Medicaid overhaul and federal approval for hospital payment reforms are in focus, while the redistricting fight continues to shape tight races and recount talk. Public Safety/Local Costs: Karns City Regional Ambulance Service is floating a “shared costs” model to keep EMS afloat as budgets tighten. National Politics: Louisiana’s GOP Senate primary puts Trump’s influence on the line in Bill Cassidy’s bid for renomination.

Immigration/Healthcare: The U.S. lifted a hold on immigration applications for doctors, creating a lifeline for Hoosier-area physicians caught in stalled green-card reviews—though it still doesn’t guarantee approvals. Public Safety/Statehouse: Fort Wayne Rep. Chris Judy’s new public-safety package includes a foreign-influence disclosure law and updates to protective-order rules for stalking and abuse victims. Elections: Indiana’s recount machinery is getting ready as tight primary results simmer—Tippecanoe County certified Spencer Deery’s 3-vote lead in Senate District 23, with a recount possible. Courts/Prisons: Indiana’s AG finalized a compliance agreement tied to heating failures at South Bend’s Karl King Tower. Energy/Environment: A Sierra Club and Earthjustice challenge argued in federal court against DOE’s “energy emergency” coal-plant extensions that have raised Hoosier bills. Sports/Indy 500: Academy Award winner Brendan Fraser is named honorary starter for the May 24 Indy 500. Local Governance: Auburn says it’s ending fire protection for Jackson Township after repeated delayed responses and payment disputes.

School Distraction Crackdown: Gov. Mike Braun signed Indiana’s “bell-to-bell” student cellphone ban, requiring districts to limit personal devices for the full school day starting July 1, with exceptions for emergencies, IEP/504 needs, and medical situations. Public Safety: A deadly I-65 semi crash in Northwest Indiana left 3 dead and 2 critically hurt, shutting lanes for hours as investigators worked the scene. Opioid Money: Indiana is set to receive $27M from the opioid settlement, continuing the state’s push to turn settlement dollars into overdose prevention. Law Enforcement Spotlight: Braun visited Fort Wayne for National Police Week, highlighting ISP’s Cop on a Rooftop fundraising for Special Olympics. Local Growth: Fort Wayne logged 2025 population gains and is being touted as the fastest-growing large city in the Midwest, according to new Census estimates. Culture & Community: Chreece Fest returns with Rico Nasty and Jorjiana headlining at Fountain Square on Aug. 29.

Election Fallout: One week before Kentucky’s GOP primary, Rep. Thomas Massie is fighting back against “hush money” allegations tied to a former girlfriend’s claim that he offered $5,000 to stay silent about a complaint involving Indiana Rep. Victoria Spartz. Courts & Culture: Indiana’s near-total abortion ban cleared another hurdle as the Indiana Supreme Court declined to hear a broader-exceptions challenge. Public Safety: Indiana prison oversight is back in the spotlight after recent fires and ongoing concerns about the state’s prisoner-transfer backlog spilling into county jails. Education Policy: Gov. Braun signed Indiana’s “bell-to-bell” school cellphone restriction law, starting July 1. State & Local: Mooresville is set to honor a fallen airman this weekend, while Fort Harrison State Park is asking for help after track chairs and Vietnam-era helmets were stolen. Sports (Nonstop): The NFL schedule is fully out, with Indiana teams’ slates now set and primetime/international matchups driving the headlines.

School Cellphone Crackdown: Gov. Braun ceremonially signed Indiana’s “bell-to-bell” school cellphone ban, with the statewide device restriction starting July 1—students can’t use or even possess wireless devices during the school day unless a teacher directs it for instruction or an emergency exception applies. Courts & Public Safety: In Delphi, the Indiana Court of Appeals set oral argument for Richard Allen’s appeal of his 130-year murder sentence for Sept. 21. Federal Crime Case: In northwest Indiana, all 22 defendants in “Operation Porterhouse Parlay” pleaded not guilty in a gambling and extortion case tied to restaurants in Merrillville and Hobart. Statewide Policy Watch: Indiana foster youth can now access federal survivor benefits after aging out, following Braun’s executive order. Education & Cybersecurity: New reporting shows Indiana K-12 cyberattacks are rising, with incidents reported under a 48-hour state requirement.

Indiana GOP Primary Fallout: Indiana’s Trump-backed challengers kept rolling, knocking out multiple incumbent state senators after the redistricting fight—while Spencer Deery’s seat stayed razor-close, with provisional ballots still in play. Recount Watch: A Democratic rep is urging Secretary of State Diego Morales to recuse himself if a recount is filed, arguing Morales can’t stay objective; his office says he won’t step aside. School Safety: Gov. Braun signed Indiana’s “bell-to-bell” cellphone restriction law, and state police are gearing up for enforcement. Long-Term Care: Braun also signed HEA 1277, updating Medicaid long-term care rules for seniors, including assisted living and more billing transparency. Roads: Carmel’s U.S. 31/Meridian southbound closure starts Thursday for INDOT’s Level Up 31 expansion. Public Safety: Indiana joins the national “Click It or Ticket” seat-belt crackdown through May 31. Health & Politics: A new Indiana HIV investigation highlights how the outbreak’s hardest-hit communities say they were left in the dark.

School Distraction Crackdown: Gov. Mike Braun signed Indiana’s “bell-to-bell” cellphone ban, tightening rules on student devices during the full school day with limited exceptions for emergencies, IEP/504 plans, and medical needs. Election Watch: Indiana Senate District 23 remains razor-thin—Parke County verified one more provisional ballot for Sen. Spencer Deery, extending his lead to three votes, with Tippecanoe’s last two provisionals still pending. Courts & Immigration: A judge paused AG Todd Rokita’s Monroe County lawsuit against Sheriff Ruben Marté while a related federal challenge over Indiana’s immigration enforcement detainer requirements moves forward. Housing & Finance: A Pew-backed look at Indiana shows many residents still use land contracts to buy homes—often a risky alternative when mortgages aren’t available. Sports/Global: The NFL confirmed a record nine international games for 2026, including the Colts’ Oct. 4 London matchup vs. Washington.

Federal Gas Tax Fight: President Trump says he’ll seek a pause on the federal gas tax to blunt pump-price pain tied to the Iran crisis—but experts warn it likely won’t translate into much relief and would require Congress. Indiana Public Safety Numbers: Indiana State Police reported April enforcement results including 5,105 commercial vehicle inspections, 585 out-of-service drivers, and 540 overweight violations, plus April traffic enforcement totals like 38,233 stops and 295 drunk-driving arrests. Education Politics: Chalkbeat looks ahead to November school board races—now partisan under a new state law—where property-tax pressure, school choice fights, and candidate shortages could shape outcomes. Speech & Free Expression: Indiana AG Todd Rokita faces an ACLU challenge after a complaint alleges investigators warned a man over posting “86” on officials’ social media. Local Governance: Fort Wayne Community Schools faces backlash after board members filled a vacancy in a way critics call less transparent.

High-Speed Chaos: Indiana State Police say a chase that hit 140 mph ended in Chesterton after a car lost tires; the driver, 20-year-old Carmela Pantoja of Elkhart, was arrested and later recorded a 0.09% BAC. Marijuana Watch: The Indiana Board of Pharmacy reviewed federal rescheduling but took no action, leaving state rules unchanged for now—meanwhile GOP Sen. Mike Bohacek is already drafting a 2027 medical marijuana legalization bill. Politics & Power: A White House celebration for Indiana’s national-championship IU football season pulled in a big crowd of Hoosier Republicans and Trump administration figures, underscoring how quickly sports wins turn into political momentum. Courts & Culture: Indiana is among 23 states backing Louisiana in a Supreme Court fight over mail-order abortion pills. Public Safety: “Click It or Ticket” seatbelt enforcement ramps up statewide as police chase stories keep dominating headlines.

Gas Tax Fight: President Trump says he’ll move to suspend the federal gasoline tax as pump prices stay high amid the Iran conflict, but Congress has to approve it—so Hoosiers should expect a political fight, not instant relief. Public Safety: Indiana agencies are ramping up seatbelt enforcement for the “Click It or Ticket” campaign through May 31, with overtime patrols aimed at buckling up and securing kids. Local Land-Use: Neighbors in Martindale-Brightwood and the Hoosier Environmental Council are suing to stall Indianapolis’ approved data center plan, arguing the city didn’t properly weigh health and environmental harm. Education Pressure: Indianapolis Public Schools announced $17 million in central-office cuts for 2026-27 as property tax changes and enrollment shifts squeeze budgets. Community & Courts: A new Indiana law will require DOC to notify communities and victims before releasing serious violent offenders, following the Susan Haynie case.

Gas Tax Showdown: President Trump says he’ll suspend the federal gas tax “for a period of time” tied to when prices fall, but experts warn it’s likely modest relief because the federal levy is small compared with the Iran-war-driven jump at the pump. Indiana Response: Gov. Mike Braun is already extending Indiana’s gas tax pause, setting up another affordability announcement as Hoosiers watch prices closely. Traffic Safety Push: Evansville police are joining a statewide “Click It or Ticket” seatbelt crackdown through May 31, with overtime patrols focused on unbuckled drivers, passengers, and improperly restrained kids. Politics Aftermath: Indiana’s primary fallout keeps rippling—one Senate race is still decided by a handful of votes after provisional ballot sorting. Local Governance: Data centers remain a flashpoint: Fort Wayne and South Bend-area residents and groups are pressing for moratoriums over diesel generator air concerns, while Indianapolis leaders weigh how to manage the growth.

Indiana Political Wire coverage over the past day is dominated by the political aftershocks of Indiana’s 2026 primary elections—especially the fallout from the state’s redistricting fight. Multiple reports frame Tuesday’s results as a “punishment” and “revenge” moment for Republican lawmakers who opposed Trump-backed redistricting efforts, with one account noting that nearly all of the targeted incumbents were defeated in the state Senate. The most immediate legislative consequence is that Indiana’s state Senate is still weighing whether to pass a new congressional map that would make all nine districts lean Republican, with the outcome described as uncertain even after the House passed the map earlier this month.

Beyond Indiana, the same redistricting theme appears in broader context: coverage highlights how Supreme Court rulings are reshaping the legal landscape for race-based districting claims, and how other states are moving quickly to redraw maps ahead of the midterms. Utah’s congressional map saga is also updated, with a judge ordering the Legislature to redraw maps in conformity with voter-approved standards—an example of how redistricting litigation continues to produce near-term deadlines and potential opportunities for Democrats.

Several non-election stories also break through in the last 12 hours, but they read more like local service and legal updates than major political turning points. These include a federal judge delaying a decision on an ICE habeas petition for Elvira Benitez-Suarez by requesting additional briefs, and Hendricks County launching listening sessions tied to 2026 property tax assessment cost-table changes. There’s also a local public-safety incident in Jay County involving a driver accused of fighting officers while sheriff and a captain were directing traffic in front of a school.

Finally, the coverage shows continuity with earlier reporting on the policy and institutional battles surrounding redistricting and related governance. The same week’s broader themes include outside spending and small-business-aligned candidates performing well in Indiana primaries (as reported by NFIB), and ongoing legal and regulatory disputes that extend beyond elections—such as the Nexstar-Tegna merger fight and data-center opposition efforts. However, the most recent evidence is heavily election-focused, while other policy areas are comparatively sparse in the last 12 hours.

Indiana Political Wire coverage over the past week is dominated by the fallout from Indiana’s May primary—especially the way President Trump’s redistricting fight appears to have reshaped the state GOP. Multiple reports describe a “purge” dynamic in which Trump-backed challengers defeated Republican incumbents who had opposed the redistricting push, with one account saying Trump’s chosen candidates took down five of seven targeted GOP incumbents (while noting at least some races remained uncertain). Several pieces frame the results as a clear signal of Trump’s continuing grip on the Republican base, even as outside observers question whether that influence will translate into broader midterm gains.

In the most recent 12 hours, the emphasis shifts from election-night narratives to specific, localized consequences and lingering vote mechanics. Coverage includes Allen County’s delayed vote tallying after technical difficulties with vote centers, and a separate report that Montgomery County was the last county to report results—highlighting how provisional and mail ballots could still affect outcomes in at least one state Senate district. There’s also a detailed look at the Senate District 23 contest, where Deery’s margin narrowed to four votes after additional absentee ballots were counted, with provisional and mail ballots still pending final certification. Together, these items suggest the election story is still “in motion” in a few places, even as broader themes about Trump-aligned victories are already being widely discussed.

Beyond election politics, the last-day coverage includes a mix of legal, public safety, and policy-adjacent stories that connect to broader national debates. A federal complaint backed by Indiana’s Attorney General (Chris Carr) is highlighted for alleging secret “gender transition” policies by a Maryland school district, while other items focus on Indiana-related governance and oversight issues (e.g., a school board addressing fiscal errors and restructuring). Public safety coverage includes a South Bend police-involved shooting that left a woman dead, and a separate jail-related civil liability ruling from outside Indiana that underscores how detention policies can become costly legal exposure—though it is not presented as an Indiana case in the provided text.

Finally, several non-political or sports-focused stories appear alongside the political coverage, including the ongoing Brendan Sorsby gambling/eligibility controversy (with reports of state gaming regulator investigations and NCAA eligibility concerns) and a range of community and civic notices (such as a Quilt of Valor presentation, blood drive planning, and memorial rides for fallen officers). The overall picture is that Indiana’s primary results—particularly the redistricting-retribution theme—remain the central throughline, while the most recent hours add granular updates on vote counting and district-level uncertainty, plus continued attention to culture-war and legal disputes that are likely to carry into the general election.