Indiana’s 2024 U.S. Senate race features Republican U.S. Representative Jim Banks, Democrat Dr. Valerie McCray, and Libertarian Andrew Horning. The candidates have sharply contrasting views on major policy issues this election cycle.
Social Security
One of the biggest challenges for federal lawmakers is the future of Social Security. A recent government report warns that the Social Security trust fund could deplete by November 2033.
Jim Banks advocates for raising the retirement age and means-testing benefits for future recipients. He emphasized, “You can do that without affecting anyone who relies on Social Security today or who will tomorrow.”
In contrast, Dr. Valerie McCray opposes any changes to benefits or retirement age. She suggests removing the cap on Social Security taxes, which currently taxes only the first $176,100 of income. “If we took that cap off, those who earn more would contribute more, making it viable,” McCray said.
Andrew Horning claims to be the only candidate addressing the larger debt issue. He argues that much government spending is unconstitutional.
Immigration
The immigration debate is heated, especially with former President Donald Trump proposing a mass deportation plan that could remove millions of undocumented immigrants.
McCray criticized Trump’s plan as “insane” and unfeasible, questioning, “How are you going to deport that many people? Where would they go? Who pays for that?”
Banks supports mass deportation but insists it should not be the sole focus. He believes holding employers accountable for hiring undocumented workers will reduce the incentive for illegal immigration.
Horning shares concerns about the feasibility of mass deportation, stating, “The scale of that operation — we’ve never done anything like that.” He argues that deportation should prioritize serious criminals.
Despite their disagreements, all candidates agree that the U.S. legal immigration system needs reform. Banks calls for securing the southern border with a physical wall and supports a merit-based system that prioritizes American labor needs.
McCray agrees that the current immigration processes are too complex. “We need smoother, faster processes,” she said.
Horning believes there is already a sufficient path to citizenship. “I have no problem with people coming here for a better life,” he noted, advocating for state involvement in border security.
Abortion
The U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to end guaranteed abortion rights has prompted discussions on national abortion legislation.
McCray emphasizes enshrining reproductive rights as a central part of her campaign. “We can restore the rights that were available under Roe v. Wade,” she stated.
Horning is against abortion but believes federal involvement is unwarranted. “Legally, the federal government has no role in this,” he asserted, adding that countries with more access to abortion and contraception often have lower abortion rates.
Banks supports a federal ban on abortions after 15 weeks and advocates for prohibiting abortions for sex selection or fetal abnormalities. However, he believes that meaningful abortion legislation is unlikely to pass in Congress.
As the election date approaches, the candidates’ differing views on these critical issues will shape the conversation in Indiana’s Senate race.
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