Houchin, Messmer Seek Reelection in Indiana House Races

Voters in Indiana's 8th and 9th Congressional Districts decided House races in the 2026 midterm election.

Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Political Parties

Houchin, Messmer Seek Reelection in Indiana House Races

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Should the federal government cut its spending and reduce regulations?

Republican Erin Houchin is seeking a third term in Indiana's 9th Congressional District against Democrat Brad Meyer and Libertarian Tonya Hudson. Republican Mark Messmer is seeking a second term in the 8th District against Democrat Mary Allen.

Why it matters

The races determine representation for southern Indiana in the U.S. House, with both incumbents facing challengers in districts that span multiple cities and counties. The outcome shapes the Indiana delegation's composition for the next term.

Houchin's 9th District covers Jeffersonville, New Albany, and Bloomington, while Messmer's 8th District covers Crawford and Orange counties. Final vote totals were not available in the source data.

The players

Erin Houchin

Republican U.S. Representative from Indiana's 9th Congressional District seeking a third term.

Mark Messmer

Republican U.S. Representative from Indiana's 8th Congressional District who spent 16 years in the Indiana state Legislature before winning his congressional seat in 2024.

Mary Allen

Democratic candidate for Indiana's 8th Congressional District who serves on the Evansville City Council.

The details

In the 9th District, Houchin faces Democrat Brad Meyer and Libertarian Tonya Hudson. In the 8th District, Messmer faces Democrat Mary Allen, who currently serves on the Evansville City Council.

2024: Mark Messmer was elected to Congress.
November 3, 2026: Midterm election results decided Indiana's House races.

Political Context

Messmer was first elected to Congress in 2024 after 16 years in the Indiana state Legislature, and his 2026 bid tests whether that transition to federal office holds with voters. The race follows his initial 2024 win as the first step in that federal tenure.

Residents of Jeffersonville, New Albany, Bloomington, Crawford County, and Orange County will have a new or returning representative based on the results of these races. Voters in those areas will see the House seat outcomes reflected in their federal representation.

The takeaway

Congressional races often turn on local ties and prior state service, as both incumbents and challengers in these districts draw on regional roots. Checking candidate backgrounds can clarify which contenders bring the most relevant experience to federal office.