Democrats lay out priorities in race for Indiana’s 9th District

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The race for Indiana’s 9th Congressional District is unfolding as Democratic candidates laid out competing visions Tuesday night.

On the Republican side, incumbent Erin Houchin faces no primary challenger, setting up a clear path to the general election.

But for Democrats, the contest is wide open.

Candidates Tim Peck, Brad Meyer, Keil Roark and Jim Graham each took part in the forum, answering questions and outlining their vision for southern Indiana.

A key focus of the night was federal policy priorities and what candidates would push in Washington.

Graham pointed to health care policy and federal subsidies while Meyer said there needs to be a focus on lowering the cost of living.

Roark criticized federal spending plans.

"We want to repeal and replace that and we do not want to take an estimated 13 million dollars in SNAP and Medicaid benefits out of the next 10 years," he said.

The candidates focused heavily on cost of living and health care, though their approaches differed.

The primary will determine which Democrat advances to face Houchin in November.