Keeping Northwest Indiana Heard: A Conversation with Rep. Ragen Hatcher

Photo courtesy of Indiana House Democratic Caucus

At the time this story was written, Indiana was in the midst of a debate over whether to redraw the state’s congressional district map. Indiana, along with several other states, was urged to reconsider its maps following encouragement from the white house, a move that could have shifted political power and potentially opened two additional congressional seats for the Republican Party.

House Bill 1032, Indiana’s redistricting bill, quickly sparked debate and scrutiny among Hoosiers. On December 5, 2025, the bill passed the Indiana House with a vote of 57 yeas to 41 nays. Just one week later, however, it was defeated in the Senate with 19 yeas and 31 nays.

Had the bill passed, it could have had a significant impact on rural and urban communities across Indiana. Changes in district representation may have diluted or silenced Hoosier voices—particularly in regions already underrepresented in the Statehouse.

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In a family rooted in public service, Representative Ragen Hatcher seemed destined to serve. Growing up in Gary, Indiana, she watched her father, former Gary Mayor Richard G. Hatcher, and her mother, an educator who spent 40 years teaching in the Gary Community School Corporation, dedicate their lives to the community. That commitment became the foundation of Hatcher’s own sense of purpose.

Mayor Hatcher made history as the first Black mayor of a major U.S. city, leading Gary through intense racial tensions and economic challenges during the 1960s and beyond. His perseverance left a lasting impression on his daughters.

Today, Ragen Hatcher and her two sisters are all attorneys—one serving as a public defender and another teaching civil rights at the University of Illinois Chicago.

Before becoming an elected official, Hatcher developed her passion for public service through roles in government, including serving as an attorney for a school district and as a township prosecutor. Since taking office on November 6, 2018, she has represented Indiana’s 3rd House District for the past seven years.

“The biggest thing that we learned growing up is that you look out for people who may not have the ability to look out for themselves,” Hatcher said. “Not that everyone can’t speak for themselves—but sometimes they need a platform to get their message out.”

Below is a Q&A conversation with Representative Ragen Hatcher, discussing her motivations, legislative priorities, and hopes for her legacy.

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Growing up with a father who was the first Black mayor of a major U.S. city and a mother who was an educator—what values shaped you as a leader?

After reflecting on advocacy and access, Hatcher emphasized the importance of addressing everyday struggles.

“Whether it’s health care, minimum wage, education, or the systems that keep people from excelling, those are the real core issues people face,” she said. “Being able to speak up for those people and be their voice—that’s what matters.”

Why did you choose to serve on the Financial Institutions and Agriculture & Rural Development Committees?

Hatcher expressed enthusiasm about serving on the Financial Institutions Committee, noting its relevance to low- and middle-income Hoosiers.

“Financial institutions don’t just include banks,” she explained. “They include payday loan stores and paycheck advance businesses—things that can be very predatory in low-income communities.”

Regarding Agriculture and Rural Development, Hatcher said supporting farmers is critical to Indiana’s economy.

“Farmers are one of the biggest income drivers in this state,” she said. “Even though I don’t live in a farming community, I care about making sure farmers receive proper subsidies and support—especially now, as we’re dealing with tariff issues that have had a huge impact nationwide.”

What does a typical day look like during the legislative session compared to the rest of the year?

Hatcher explained that much of her work—whether in session or not—happens behind the scenes.

“It’s about asking, ‘How can I make something happen for my constituents?’ or ‘Who do I need to talk to to move this forward?’” she said. “Committee chairs have the power to decide whether a bill is heard, so relationships are essential.”

She added that representing an urban district in a largely rural legislature can be challenging.

“We could be in Gary and drive 50 miles south and be in a completely different economy with a completely different set of issues,” Hatcher said. “Many legislators don’t understand urban problems because they represent rural areas.”

Outside of session, Hatcher focuses on community engagement.

“We’re talking directly to constituents, local leaders, and mayors—people I live next door to,” she said. “That makes it easier to understand the issues and work toward solutions.”

How did you feel about the last legislative session, and what are you expecting from the upcoming one?

“Last session was rough,” Hatcher said. “We spent a lot of time playing defense—trying to stop things that would have negatively impacted people. It was also a budget session, which overshadowed everything.”

Looking ahead, Hatcher said she plans to introduce what she calls “people-impacting bills.”

“From excessive bank fees to payday lending practices, those are the things we’re trying to protect people from,” she said.

What advice would you give to young people and aspiring activists in Northern Indiana?

“There’s no better thing you can do than vote,” Hatcher emphasized. “Vote—and get others to vote.”

She pointed to low voter turnout as a major concern.

“We had turnout rates as low as 15 to 20 percent in Northwest Indiana,” she said. “If everyone voted, we could shift political power and force lawmakers to take our issues seriously.”

In 2024, Lake and Porter Counties saw less than 15 percent turnout during the primary election, but both exceeded 55 percent turnout in the general election.

“You really have to vote if you want to make a difference,” she said. “That’s always my answer—no matter who asks.”

What keeps you motivated during difficult sessions?

Hatcher said she often looks to her father’s legacy for strength.

“Looking at everything he endured—the racism, white flight, and constant opposition—reminds me that if he could do it, I can too,” she said. “Even as part of a superminority, I can make sure Northwest Indiana’s voices are heard.”

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He keeps me going,” she added. “He’s my motivation.”

How would you like to be remembered?

“I want to be remembered as someone who continued his legacy,” Hatcher said. “Someone outspoken, passionate about this community, and willing to speak up on the issues that impact Northwest Indiana.”