Recount in Indiana State Senate Primary Favors Trump-Backed Candidate

A recount in a closely contested Indiana state Senate primary has shifted the lead to Republican candidate Paula Copenhaver, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, over incumbent Spencer Deery. Deery was one of seven Republican state senators in Indiana who faced primary challengers after voting against a redistricting map supported by Trump last year. Out of these seven, five incumbents were defeated, while Deery held a narrow three-vote lead before Copenhaver called for a recount.

On Monday, the Indiana Recount Commission invalidated ten votes due to minor errors, affecting eight votes for Deery and two for Copenhaver. This decision granted Copenhaver a three-vote lead, as reported by the Indiana Capital Chronicle. Deery announced on X that he plans to appeal, accusing the commission of undermining voters’ intent by treating ballots differently based on political considerations.

In a message to NBC News, Deery expressed concern over the commission’s decision, warning it set a concerning precedent for future elections. He noted that none of the challenged ballots had uncertain voter intent. The issues arose from administrative errors by election officials. He remains hopeful that Indiana’s appellate courts will validate the original vote counts, reinforcing the voters’ choice in Senate District 23.

Spencer Deery was among the Republican senators who opposed the Trump-supported redistricting changes.

Copenhaver, an aide to Indiana’s Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith, has yet to comment. Should her victory withstand the appeal, she will likely be the favored candidate in the general election for the predominately Republican 23rd district. The race includes Democrat West Lafayette City Councilman David Sanders and independent candidate Joshua Brant. The state Senate may address redistricting again before the 2028 election cycle.

Indiana Senate President Rod Bray, who also opposed Trump’s redistricting map, announced he will not seek another term as the Republican leader.

Trump shared his satisfaction on Truth Social, expressing gratitude to Indiana for supporting his initiatives, including removing dissenting senators. He criticized Bray for opposing his redistricting plan.