Mid-Decade Maps: Trump, Indiana, and the Redistricting Power Grab w/Rep. Matt Pierce
Blake and Earl are joined by State Rep. Matt Pierce for a candid conversation about the brazen push to redraw congressional maps mid-decade at Donald Trump’s urging. From backroom deals in Indiana to the broader national implications, they break down why this power grab is unprecedented, what’s at stake for democracy, and how everyday Hoosiers can push back. This episode dives into history, law, and the raw politics shaping the fight over fair representation.
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35:33
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35:33
Laws, Loopholes & Local Roads: What Just Became Law in Indiana
Session’s out, but the policy rollercoaster isn’t.In this episode, Rep. Blake Johnson and Rep. Earl Harris Jr. reunite (virtually) to unpack the most consequential - and controversial - laws that took effect in Indiana this July. From a property tax “cut” that shifts the burden to local governments, to a partisan power grab in our school board elections, to cuts in healthcare and early learning, they don’t hold back.They also get into:Raising the teacher salary floor—and why it’s still not enoughMedicaid work requirements: effective policy or performative cruelty?A spirited debate between the hosts over SEA 1461 (road funding, tolling, and why it’s a win for Indy)How interim committees really work and why your voice matters right nowBlake’s got a new baby, Earl’s lost another hubcap, and together they’re breaking down what Indiana just passed and how it’s going to hit your wallet, your schools, and your future.
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32:32
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32:32
The Sprint to Sine Die (and Double Diaper Duty)
Indiana State Reps. Blake Johnson and Earl Harris Jr. are back with reflections on the Statehouse — and a major life change just around the corner for Blake.In this episode, the co-hosts break down:The ongoing concerns around SB 287, which would make school board races partisan — and why that’s raising eyebrows across the aisle. Update: bill passed by razor thin margin.The drama around Senate Bill 1 and the governor’s push for real property tax reliefThe high-stakes budget talks, the politics of SB 518 (school funding), and the looming possibility of a special sessionRoad funding, tolling fears in NW Indiana, and what’s still in play as the 2025 session hits the homestretchPlus: Blake gets real about impending fatherhood (again), and Earl speculates on whether ChatGPT is gunning for the co-host chair.
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17:04
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17:04
The Speaker of the House w/Rep. Todd Huston
For the first time ever on Session Sessions, we’re joined by the Speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives — and yes, he’s from the other party. Speaker Todd Huston sits down with Reps. Earl Harris Jr. and Blake Johnson for a rare, unfiltered conversation about what it’s really like to lead the 100-member House.We cover a lot: the reality of wrangling policy and personalities, how the sausage gets made during budget season, why the second half of session always feels like a sprint, and the surprising power of simply getting to know each other as people. Speaker Huston even opens up about the loneliness that can come with leadership — and the dinner-table wisdom that keeps him grounded.Also, minivans.Whether you’re inside the Statehouse or just curious about how it all works, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
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31:01
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31:01
Kicking Off the Second Half w/Kip Tew
In this episode of Session Sessions, we welcome back former state party chair and City County-Councillor, government affairs expert Kip Tew. Kip shares insights and expectations for the second half of Indiana’s legislative session. Recorded on the last day of the first half, Kip shares thoughts on what has unfolded so far and what to expect moving forward.Topics include:✅ How a new governor is reshaping the legislative dynamic✅ The battle over property taxes and its impact on local government✅ Surprise bills that failed to advance, including the controversial homelessness criminalization bill✅ The role of lobbyists in shaping legislation and how AI is beginning to play a role✅ How national politics are trickling down to affect Indiana’s economy and policymaking
Indiana State Representatives Earl Harris, Jr. and Blake Johnson host fellow legislators and experts to share an inside look at the Indiana General Assembly, explain bills moving through the legislative session and showcase the policies and processes that are shaping our state.
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