In a surprising turn of events, two prominent Indiana political figures, Andre Carson and Jim Banks, have declined opportunities to debate their opponents ahead of crucial elections. The refusal of both candidates to engage in debates raises concerns about transparency and accountability, leaving voters to wonder why these politicians are avoiding public discourse.
Andre Carson, the incumbent Democrat representing Indiana’s 7th Congressional District, has not participated in a debate since being elected in 2008. Carson, who succeeded his grandmother, the late Congresswoman Julia Carson, has been a staple in Indianapolis politics. Despite growing calls for public debates, especially from voters eager to hear candidates’ positions on key issues, Carson has consistently declined to participate.
This election cycle is no different. Carson initially suggested a virtual debate with his GOP opponent, John Schmitz, a businessman and non-profit leader in the Mars Hill area of Indianapolis. However, Carson later backed out of the offer. His reasoning? "We will not debate because someone is out to get me," Carson told his campaign, implying concerns about personal attacks or ulterior motives in the debate setting.
Schmitz, who has gained traction in Indianapolis by focusing on local issues such as infrastructure and economic development, expressed disappointment in Carson’s decision. "The voters deserve a debate, a chance to compare our visions for this district. Running from a debate does a disservice to the people," Schmitz remarked in a recent statement.
Carson’s refusal has sparked criticism from both Republicans and Democrats, with some voters questioning his transparency and commitment to open dialogue. In a district where many feel left behind by national politics, the lack of a debate could have lasting implications for voter turnout and engagement.
Jim Banks, a congressman from Indiana’s 3rd District, is also under scrutiny for avoiding a debate in his bid to replace outgoing Senator Mike Braun, who is running for Governor. Banks, widely considered the favorite to win the Senate seat, has refused to debate Libertarian candidate Andrew Horning, who is challenging him from the right.
Horning, a seasoned Libertarian candidate with multiple runs for office under his belt, is known for his staunch conservative views, often aligning more closely with traditional conservatives than some Republicans. According to reports, Banks admitted to fellow Republicans that he is reluctant to debate Horning due to concerns about being “destroyed” by Horning’s sharp critiques. Horning’s platform appeals to a segment of conservative voters who feel disillusioned by what they see as the GOP’s drift away from its core values.
The absence of a debate in this critical Senate race has frustrated many voters. With Braun stepping down to pursue the governorship, Indiana’s Senate seat is a key battleground in determining the future political landscape of the state. Horning, who is campaigning on a platform of limited government, fiscal conservatism, and individual liberties, has urged Banks to reconsider his decision, emphasizing the importance of voter education through public debates.
“I’m not surprised Banks is scared to debate,” Horning quipped in a recent interview. “He knows I’ll hold him accountable for his record, and the voters will see the difference.”
The refusal of both Carson and Banks to participate in debates could be indicative of a broader trend in modern politics, where candidates—especially incumbents and frontrunners—avoid public scrutiny by declining debates. This practice, while politically expedient, denies voters the opportunity to see candidates face tough questions and defend their positions in real time.
For voters in Indiana’s 7th Congressional District and those following the Senate race, the absence of debates leaves a critical void in the electoral process. Without these debates, voters are left to rely on campaign ads, sound bites, and social media posts rather than substantive discussions of the issues that matter most to them.
As Election Day approaches, the decisions of Carson and Banks to avoid public debates may ultimately weigh on their campaigns, leaving voters to ask: What are they hiding?
Debates have long been a cornerstone of American democracy, providing voters with a direct comparison of candidates' positions and qualifications. As Andre Carson and Jim Banks refuse to debate their challengers, the integrity of Indiana’s electoral process is called into question. Will voters reward candidates who shy away from accountability, or will they demand more from those seeking to represent them in Washington?
Time will tell. But for now, the lack of public debates leaves Indiana voters in the dark.