J.D. Ford flips Fifth District for first time in four decades

Congressman-elect J.D. Ford will be the first Democrat to represent Hamilton County in the U.S. House of Representatives since January 1993, when Congressman Jim Jontz left office after being defeated by Republican Steve Buyer in the November 1992 election.

In defeating incumbent Republican Victoria Spartz, Ford became the first Democrat to flip a congressional district containing Hamilton County since Jontz won in 1986 – a full 40 years ago.

On Election Night, Ford spoke to campaign volunteers and supporters.

“Tonight, Hoosiers made history, and they sent a message that will be heard far beyond Indiana’s 5th District,” Ford said. “This victory belongs to every person who has felt ignored by Washington, every family struggling to make ends meet, and every voter who believed that change was possible. Hoosiers are demanding leaders who put people ahead of powerful interests and deliver results that make their lives better. I’m truly honored that Hoosiers have trusted me to be the person who fights for that change, and that’s exactly what I intend to do.”

Ford centered his campaign on lowering everyday costs, protecting access to affordable healthcare, and restoring accountability in Washington.

“Hoosiers are working harder, paying more and getting less in return,” Ford said. “Families are struggling to afford groceries, utilities, and healthcare while powerful corporations and wealthy interests continue to get ahead in Washington. That’s not the government Hoosiers deserve. I’m going to Congress to fight corruption, stand up to corporate interests and make sure the decisions being made in Washington put people and their families first.”

Ford’s victory represents a significant shift in a district represented by Republicans since 1993. Hamilton County, the suburban heart of the district, swung 26 points toward Democrats in four years.

“Tonight, voters proved that no seat belongs to a political party. It belongs to the people,” Ford said. “Whether you voted for me or not, I will fight for you. I will listen, show up and never forget who sent me to Washington. To every voter, volunteer and supporter who made this historic victory possible, thank you. Tonight, we celebrate what Hoosiers made possible. Tomorrow, we begin the work of delivering the change they voted for.”