Sheridan, Indiana – U.S. Representative Victoria Spartz, the only Ukrainian-born member of Congress, recently found herself at odds with her constituents when she voted against a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine. Despite her heritage, Spartz emphasized the need for better oversight of U.S. funds and argued against providing “blank checks” to her native country, citing the importance of U.S. border security.
Spartz’s stance aligns her with conservative House Republicans and the sentiments of voters in her deeply conservative central Indiana district. Amidst a tough reelection battle in the GOP primary on May 7, Spartz faces challenges stemming from her initial announcement over a year ago that she would not seek another term, a decision she later reversed.
The aid package, which included support for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and other regions, was approved by the House and Senate before being signed into law by President Joe Biden. Despite criticism, Spartz defended her vote, emphasizing her primary responsibility to protect the American people.
Spartz’s opponents in the primary have focused on issues like border security, echoing the sentiments of Republican voters who prioritize U.S. interests over foreign aid. The heightened emphasis on border security is reflected in the campaign strategies of candidates like Chuck Goodrich, who have criticized Spartz’s previous support for Ukraine.
Campaign finance reports reveal that Spartz trails in fundraising compared to Goodrich, who has injected a significant amount of personal funds into his campaign. Despite this financial disparity, Spartz maintains a slight edge in incumbency, positioning her as a formidable contender in the primary race.
Amidst criticisms and fundraising challenges, Spartz continues to draw on her personal background, emphasizing her immigrant experience from the former Soviet Union. By highlighting her anti-socialist stance and commitment to defending American values, Spartz aims to rally support from voters in her district.
As the primary approaches, the dynamics of the race underscore broader themes within the Republican Party, with candidates aligning themselves closely with President Donald Trump’s platform. The outcome of the primary will likely signal the prevailing priorities and values of voters in Indiana’s 5th district.