U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz, the first Ukrainian-born member of Congress, has faced criticism for voting against a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine amid its war with Russia. She has emphasized the importance of oversight and prioritizing U.S. border security over giving unlimited financial support to foreign causes. Spartz, who represents a deeply conservative district in central Indiana, is locked in a tough reelection fight in the May 7 GOP primary, complicated by her previous announcement that she would not seek another term. Political commentator Mike Murphy notes that border security is a more pressing concern for Republican voters, and most of Spartz’s opponents have stressed the need to protect the U.S.-Mexico border.
State Rep. Chuck Goodrich, one of Spartz’s challengers, has criticized her for prioritizing Ukraine over U.S. border security, arguing that the threat of illegal drugs entering through the southern border poses a significant risk. Goodrich, who is well-funded and has received support from wealthy contributors, has emphasized the importance of securing the border even in states that are geographically distant from Mexico. Spartz, who initially won Trump’s endorsement in the 2020 primary, currently lags behind Goodrich in campaign funds, with Goodrich having loaned his campaign significant amounts of money.
Despite her initial decision not to run for reelection, Spartz now faces a competitive primary in a heavily conservative district that overwhelmingly supported Trump in the 2020 election. While Trump has not yet made an endorsement in the 5th district race, Spartz has the advantage of incumbency and has criticized Goodrich for alleged ties to China, labeling him a “Republican in Name Only.” With turnout expected to be low and the race heating up in the final weeks before the primary, the candidates are making their cases to voters, with border security and support for Ukraine being key issues in the campaign.
Spartz, who immigrated to the U.S. in 2000 and worked her way up from a bank teller to a member of Congress, has been vocal in her support for Ukraine but has also raised concerns about corruption within the Ukrainian government. In a speech to voters, she framed her reelection bid as a fight against party hypocrisy and socialism, drawing on her personal experience growing up in the Soviet Union. Despite facing criticism for her stance on Ukraine aid, Spartz remains a formidable candidate in the primary and is positioning herself as a defender of American interests and values.
The Republican primary in Indiana’s 5th district is shaping up to be a contentious battle between Spartz, Goodrich, and other candidates vying for the seat. With significant campaign funding disparities, accusations of socialist tendencies, and contrasting views on border security and foreign aid, the race reflects broader divisions within the Republican Party. Spartz’s decision to reverse her earlier announcement of not seeking reelection has added a layer of complexity to the campaign, as she seeks to retain her seat in a district that has traditionally supported conservative candidates. As the primary election approaches, the outcome remains uncertain, with voter turnout and candidate messaging playing key roles in determining the eventual winner.
