Candidate Q&A: U.S. House 4th District

U.S. Rep. Jim Baird, seeking a fourth term in Congress, will face Democrat Derrick Holder and Libertarian Ashely Groff on the November ballot in Indiana’s 4th District.

This is part of a series of Q&As with candidates in contested races in the Nov. 5 general election in Tippecanoe County.

Jim Baird, left, Derrick Holder and Ashley Groff

U.S. Rep. Jim Baird, seeking a fourth term in Congress, will face Democrat Derrick Holder and Libertarian Ashely Groff on the November ballot  in Indiana’s 4^th District.

The 4th District takes in much of west-central Indiana, including Tippecanoe and surrounding counties.

Early voting started Oct. 8.

Here, the three candidates discuss their approach to the two-year position in the U.S. House of Representatives. (Note: Questions mirror ones from the May primary. Candidates were given an opportunity to offer an update.)

• For more: Find bios of each candidate, along with information about where and when to vote at the end of this article.

Why do you want this job? Why are you running now for this position?

Jim Baird: I want this job because I’m the only candidate with a proven track record of being pro-life, pro-Israel and supporter of the Second Amendment. If you only remember one thing about me, I want you to remember that I care about this country. As a Vietnam combat veteran, I lost my arm fighting communism. And as long as they are openly talking about socialism on the House floor, I am here to fight again.

Ashley Groff: I believe in empowering individuals to make their own choices about their lives. Too often, government entities impose their views on what they consider to be best for society, which can undermine personal freedom and autonomy. I want to advocate for policies that prioritize the voices and decisions of the people, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to shape their own future. Running for this position allows me to drive meaningful change and restore that power to the community.

Derrick Holder: I am running for Congress because I believe in fighting for the people of Indiana’s 4th District. Our country is at a pivotal moment, and we need strong, compassionate leadership to protect human rights, secure economic justice and ensure the future for all Americans. Now is the time to address issues like health care, climate change and corporate greed. I am running to ensure that every voice is heard and to bring people together to create positive change for our community and country.

Name two of your top priorities for the elected position. And how will you handle them?

Jim Baird: My top two priorities for next Congress are to secure our southern border and lower inflation. Our border is a national security crisis due to this administration’s open border policies. It’s allowing deadly drugs like Fentanyl, which kill tens of thousands of Americans every year, and guns and crime to pour into our country. We must reinstate Trump’s border policies and finish building the wall. Fighting inflation is also a top priority because Americans are struggling to afford everyday items like gas and groceries.  When Biden took office, inflation was just 1.4%, but thanks to his administration’s big government spending, inflation skyrocketed to more than 9%. This resulted in Hoosiers spending more of their hard-earned money and getting less in return. Next Congress, Republicans will lower inflation by unleashing American energy and returning our country to being energy independent once again.

Ashley Groff: In education, I believe that reducing government involvement in public schools and student loans is crucial for driving down costs. My goal is to work towards abolishing the Department of Education, which would allow states and local communities to take charge of their educational systems. This approach would encourage innovation and accountability, ultimately benefiting students and families. By focusing on these priorities, I hope to create a system that serves the needs of people more effectively.

Derrick Holder: Two of my top priorities are expanding health care access and protecting veterans' rights. To handle health care, I’ll support legislation that ensures affordable, quality health care for all Hoosiers, including lowering prescription drug costs. For veterans, I’ll push for fully funded VA services and programs that address mental health and transition support. By building bipartisan support for these issues, I will work to ensure that every Hoosier has access to the care they deserve and that our veterans receive the respect and services they have earned.

What is the biggest challenge facing the nation in the next two years? How would you propose to solve or deal with it as a member of the U.S. House?

Jim Baird: The biggest challenge our nation is facing, is the crisis at our southern border. This administration has allowed more than 8 million illegal immigrants to pour into our country with little to no vetting, overwhelming our schools, healthcare facilities and flooding our communities with narcotics, fentanyl and crime. We must reinstate Trump’s border policies, build the wall and pass comprehensive immigration reform.

Ashley Groff: The biggest challenge facing our nation in the next two years is undoubtedly the rising cost of living. Many families are struggling to make ends meet as prices for essential goods and services continue to soar. As a member of the U.S. House, I would advocate for solutions that directly address this issue, with a strong focus on economic reform. One key proposal is to support the Fair Tax Act. By eliminating income tax, we can shift to a consumption-based tax system, allowing individuals to keep more of their hard-earned money. This change would not only provide immediate financial relief but also stimulate economic growth by encouraging spending and investment. In addition to supporting the Fair Tax Act, I would work on policies that promote affordable housing, enhance job training programs, and invest in sustainable energy solutions to lower utility costs. By addressing the cost of living through these comprehensive strategies, we can create a more equitable and prosperous future for all Americans.

Derrick Holder: The biggest challenge facing the nation in the next two years is addressing economic inequality driven by corporate greed and inflation. This issue is deepening the gap between the wealthy and everyday Americans, affecting wages, housing and health care. As a member of the U.S. House, I would advocate for stronger protections for workers, legislation to raise the minimum wage, and hold corporations accountable for price gouging. Additionally, I would push for sustainable economic policies that prioritize the well-being of all Americans, not just the top 1%.

What, if any changes, would you propose to U.S. border and immigration policies?

Jim Baird: The changes Biden should make to U.S. Border and Immigration policies are simple: finish the border wall, enforce the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and reinstate asylum agreements with El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. The previous administration had these policies in place which resulted in the most secure border in our nation’s history. Unfortunately, Biden undid these policies day one of his administration paving the way to the crisis we find ourselves in today.

Ashley Groff: We need to simplify the immigration process to make it easier for immigrants to come, work and thrive in our communities. By streamlining the application procedures and reducing unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, we can create a more efficient system that encourages skilled workers and families to contribute to our society. This approach not only supports economic growth but also enriches our communities by fostering diversity and innovation. Making the immigration process more accessible will ultimately benefit both newcomers and established residents alike.

Derrick Holder: I believe U.S. border and immigration policies need comprehensive reform that balances security with compassion. We should strengthen border security while creating clear, humane pathways for asylum seekers and immigrants. Reforming the visa process, expanding work programs and providing a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants are essential steps. Additionally, we must address the root causes of migration, like violence and economic instability in other countries, through diplomatic and economic support, rather than punitive measures. Border policy should reflect American values of justice and opportunity for all.

Would you back a national law on access to abortion? And what would that law do, either to restrict or grant more access?

Jim Baird: Let me first make clear that I am a staunch supporter of protecting the unborn and have an “A” rating on the Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life scorecard. But having said that, I would not support a national law on access to abortion because I believe the issue of abortion belongs to the states and that the Supreme Court was correct in 2022 when it overturned Roe v. Wade because there is no constitutional right to an abortion. This decision belongs with the American people and their state governments.

Ashley Groff: I firmly believe that it is not the right of any government to dictate what a person can or cannot do with their body. Everyone deserves the autonomy to make personal health decisions without interference. Therefore, I would support a national law that grants greater access to abortion services, recognizing that abortion care is an essential aspect of health care. This law would aim to ensure that all individuals have the right to access safe and legal abortion services, regardless of their geographic location or economic status. It would also include provisions to protect health care providers who offer these services and promote education and resources for those seeking reproductive health care. By prioritizing access and support, we can uphold individual rights and ensure that everyone can make informed choices about their own bodies and futures.

Derrick Holder: Yes, I would support a national law to codify access to abortion. Such a law would restore the protections of Roe v. Wade, ensuring women have the right to make private health care decisions in consultation with their doctors. It would also protect access to safe, legal abortion nationwide, preventing individual states from implementing restrictive laws that infringe on women’s rights. This law would grant more access, particularly in states where women currently face severe restrictions, while ensuring reproductive health care is safe, accessible and equitable for all.

What’s the best thing Congress can do to improve access to quality health care? And how would you propose getting that done? 

Jim Baird: I believe the keys to improve access and affordability to health care are achieved through innovation and competition in the free market. That’s why I supported, and the House passed, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act, which would lower health care costs and increase price transparency for patients. This legislation also maintains pro-life protections, like the Hyde amendment, and the cost of the bill was fully offset and would reduce the deficit by more than $700 million. I’m working hard every day to ensure the Senate and President support this legislation and it becomes law.

Ashley Groff: I would aim to make it more affordable and accessible by removing government barriers that contribute to high costs. This includes advocating for the removal of caps on Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and supporting legislation that allows consumers to purchase health insurance across state lines. By increasing competition and flexibility, we can empower individuals to find the best health care solutions for their needs.

Derrick Holder: The best thing Congress can do to improve access to quality health care is to pass legislation that ensures universal health care coverage while lowering costs. I propose supporting a public option that allows individuals to choose between private and government healthcare, increasing competition and affordability. Additionally, we must address prescription drug pricing by allowing Medicare to negotiate prices, invest in rural health care infrastructure, and expand telehealth services. Through bipartisan collaboration, we can create sustainable, accessible healthcare that benefits all Americans, regardless of income or location.

What, if anything, should Congress do to deal with questions about climate change?

Jim Baird: If there’s one thing Congress should do regarding climate change, it would be to remove the fearmongering and politicization. In 2019, a prominent Democrat said if we do not address climate change, the world was going to end in 12 years. This type of rhetoric only invites more division and further polarizes us as a nation. The fact is our climate has constantly changed over the course of our planet’s history and humans have been able to adapt and thrive for millions of years – and we will continue to do so. But the climate in which Americans cannot adapt and thrive is one where career bureaucrats and politicians promise they are going to end fossil fuels and subsidize industries like electric cars, solar, and wind before the markets mature. Unfortunately, this administration has done exactly that, which has resulted in record gas, grocery, and housing prices hurting Americans ability to thrive in any environment.

Ashley Groff: Congress should focus on addressing climate change through free market-driven, science-backed solutions. Rather than imposing top-down regulations, we should encourage innovation and competition within the private sector to develop effective climate solutions.

Derrick Holder: Congress must act decisively on climate change by passing legislation that prioritizes renewable energy sources, strengthens emissions regulations and invests in green infrastructure. This includes supporting the development of wind, solar, geothermal, and wave energy systems while incentivizing energy efficiency in homes and businesses. Additionally, Congress should promote research and innovation in climate technologies, help communities adapt to extreme weather and hold corporations accountable for their carbon footprints. Protecting our environment is crucial for future generations and economic stability.

Name two specific things that separate you from your opponents and why they matter.

Jim Baird: The two things that separate me from my opponents are my proven track record and that I’m optimistic about our country’s future. If you review my track record, you will see that I am a decorated Vietnam War veteran, a staunch defender of the U.S. Constitution – especially the Second Amendment – and an advocate for protecting the life of the unborn. These have delivered real, tangible results that have impacted Hoosiers in a meaningful way. I know this because of the tens of thousands of positive interactions and relationships I’ve built with hardworking Hoosiers over the course of decades. It might sound trivial to point out how optimistic I am about our future when discussing what separates me from my opponents, but it’s an important distinction to make. With the support of former President Trump, me and my Republican colleagues were able to secure the border, build a historic economy, and achieve energy independence. If we stick together, we can solve these problems, because you know what? We did it before. And we are going to do it again.

Ashley Groff: First, I believe in empowering individuals rather than imposing more regulations or taxes. By prioritizing personal freedoms and choices, I aim to create an environment where people can make decisions that best suit their needs. This approach matters because it respects the autonomy of constituents and fosters innovation and personal responsibility. Second, I take pride in my meticulous attention to detail. I am committed to thoroughly reviewing all legislation before making decisions, rather than simply following party lines. This matters because it ensures that I am making informed choices that truly reflect the needs and concerns of my constituents, rather than being just another voice in the crowd. By engaging deeply with the issues, I can advocate for policies that genuinely benefit our community.

Derrick Holder: Two key differences between myself and my opponent are my unwavering support for veterans and my commitment to health care access. As a veteran myself, I deeply understand the needs of those who’ve served, which is why I prioritize comprehensive support for veterans, unlike my opponent who voted against the PACT Act. Secondly, I stand for accessible, affordable healthcare, advocating for policies that ensure no one is left behind. These issues matter because they affect the well-being and future of countless Hoosiers.

CANDIDATE BIOS

Jim Baird

Party: Republican

Age: 78

Occupation: Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Indiana’s 4th Congressional District

Education: Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from Purdue University in animal science, Doctoral degree from University of Kentucky in monogastric nutrition.

Past elected positions, if any: Current member of the U.S. House of Representatives, former State Representative in the Indiana General Assembly, County Commissioner, small business owner, farmer and decorated Vietnam War veteran.

Community boards or other community leadership and service: Active or former member of numerous local organizations including the Rotary Club of Greencastle, Putnam County Fair and 4-H Club Association, VFW, American Legion, Indiana Farm Bureau, OCS 270 and numerous others. Served on the advisory council for Purdue University’s Dean of Agriculture.

Immediate family: Married to his high school sweetheart, Danise. Three children and grandchildren.

Your campaign site online: electjimbaird.com

Ashley Groff

Party: Libertarian

Age: 30

Occupation: Account Manager

Education background: High School Diploma

Past elected positions, if any: None

Community boards or other community leadership and service: None

Immediate family: Husband, two children

Your campaign site online:  https://lpin.org/candidates/

Derrick Holder

Age: 44

Occupation: Independent Contractor, Paralegal

Education background: B.A. History, Religious Studies, Teaching Certificate, Paralegal Certificate, A.A.S. Computer Sciences

Past elected positions, if any: N/A

Community boards or other community leadership and service: Advisory Board, Equality Indiana; former Historian, American Legion Post 

Immediate family: Kristie, Spouse; Krislynn, Daughter; Ian, Son

Your campaign site online: www.derrickholder.com

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ABOUT THE NOV. 5 GENERAL ELECTION

Early voting ahead of the Nov. 5 primary election started Oct. 8 with contested races on Tippecanoe County ballots for president, governor, U.S. Senate and Houses, Indiana attorney general, several Indiana General Assembly seats, Tippecanoe County commissioner and Tippecanoe County Council at-large seats, several county elected seats, and Lafayette, West Lafayette and Tippecanoe school corporation school boards. A few things to know:

VOTER REGISRATION/YOUR BALLOT: To check your voter registration and to see candidates and public questions that will be on your specific ballot, go to the Secretary of State’s portal at www.indianavoters.com.

WHERE TO VOTE: In Tippecanoe County, registered voters may cast their ballot at any vote center.

EARLY VOTING

• Oct. 8-Oct. 11, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tippecanoe County Office Building, 20 N. Third St., Lafayette

• Oct. 15-Oct. 18, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tippecanoe County Office Building, 20 N. Third St., Lafayette

• Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., McAllister Center, 2351 N. 20th St., Lafayette

• Oct. 21-Oct. 25, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tippecanoe County Office Building, 20 N. Third St., Lafayette

• Oct. 22, noon-5 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1700 Mitch Daniels Boulevard, West Lafayette

• Oct. 24, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Purdue Co-Rec, 355 N. Martin Jischke Drive, West Lafayette.

• Oct. 26, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., West Point Fire Station, 4949 Indiana 25 S., West Point; Otterbein United Methodist Church, 405 Oxford St., Otterbein; Clarks Hill Christian Church, 9510 Pearl St., Clarks Hill; 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Tippecanoe County Office Building, 20 N. Third St., Lafayette;

• Oct. 28-Nov. 1, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tippecanoe County Office Building, 20 N. Third St., Lafayette

• Oct. 29-Nov. 1, noon-6 p.m., Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds, 1406 Teal Road, Lafayette; Eastside Assembly of God, 6121 E. County Road 50 South, Lafayette; John Dennis Wellness Center, 1101 Kalberer Road, West Lafayette.

• Nov. 2, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds, 1406 Teal Road, Lafayette; Eastside Assembly of God, 6121 E. County Road 50 South, Lafayette; John Dennis Wellness Center, 1101 Kalberer Road, West Lafayette.

• Nov. 2, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Tippecanoe County Office Building, 20 N. Third St., Lafayette

• Nov. 4, 8 a.m.-noon, Tippecanoe County Office Building, 20 N. Third St., Lafayette

ELECTION DAY VOTE CENTERS: Voting on Tuesday, Nov. 5, will be 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Registered voters in Tippecanoe County may choose any of these sites.

Lafayette

• Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds, 1406 Teal Road

• Lafayette Community Church of the Nazarene, 3801 Union St.

• Evangelical Covenant Church, 3600 S. Ninth St.

• Tippecanoe County Historical Association History Center, 522 Columbia St.

• Wea Ridge Baptist Church, 1051 E. County Road 430 South

• Eastside Assembly of God, 6121 E. County Road 50 South

• Northend Community Center, 2000 Elmwood Ave.

West Lafayette

• Faith West Community Center, 1920 Northwestern Ave.

• Margerum City Hall/West Lafayette City Hall, 222 N. Chauncey Ave.

• Connection Point Church, 2541 Cumberland Ave.

• John Dennis Wellness Center, 1101 Kalberer Road

Others

• Dayton Gathering Point Church, 7201 Wesleyan Drive, Dayton

• Shadeland Town Hall, 2485 Indiana 25 West, Shadeland

• Battle Ground Fire Station, 112 North St., Battle Ground

• Tippecanoe Township Volunteer Fire Station No. 2, 448 W. County Road 650 North, West Lafayette

ON THE BALLOT

Here are candidates and questions on Tippecanoe County ballots for the Nov. 5 general election. (Incumbents are marked with an asterisk*.) To see your specific ballot, go to the Secretary of State’s portal at www.indianavoters.com.

Tippecanoe County

• Commissioner, District 2: David Byers*, R; Steve Mayoras, Libertarian

• Commissioner, District 3: Tom Murtaugh*, R; Jaime Ortiz, Libertarian

• County Council, at-large (choose 3): Republicans: John Basham*, Barry Richard* and Kevin Underwood*. Democrats: Katy Bunder, Ben Carson and Amanda Eldridge. Libertarians: Dean Bertelli, Holly Mayoras and Randy Young

• Coroner: Carrie Costello*, R; Benjamin Milanowski, Libertarian

• Treasurer: Yadira Salazar*, R

• Surveyor: Zach Beasley*, R

• Judge, Circuit Court: Sean Persin*, R

• Judge, Superior Court 6: Michael Morrissey*, R

Statehouse races

• House District 13: Matthew Commons, R; Ed Moyer Jr., D

• House District 26: Chris Campbell*, D; Jim Schenke, R

• House District 27: Sheila Klinker*, D; Oscar Alvarez, R

• House District 38: Heath VanNatter*, R; Carl Seese, D

• House District 41: Mark Genda*, R; Dan Sikes, D

Statewide

• Governor:  Mike Braun, R; Jennifer McCormick, D; Donald Rainwater, Libertarian

• Attorney General: Todd Rokita, R; Destiny Wells, D

Federal

• President: Kamala Harris, D; Donald Trump, R; Chase Oliver, Libertarian; Robert F. Kennedy Jr., We the People

• U.S. House, District 4: Jim Baird*, R; Ashley Groff, Libertarian; Derrick Holder, D;

• U.S. Senate: Jim Banks, R; Valerie McCray, D; Andrew Horning, Libertarian

Townships

• Shadeland Township Board: Michael Kuipers, Pamela Luenz, Robert Morrison Jr. and Josh Shives, R.

• Shadeland Clerk-Treasurer: Charlene Brown, R

School boards

Lafayette School Corp., at-large (choose 3): Ebony Barrett*, Josiah Eller, Margaret Hass, James Hass, Ronald “Rocky” Hession, Gary Mueller and Julie Peretin*.

Tippecanoe School Corp.

• District 4: Jake Burton*

• District 5: Julia Cummings*

• District 6: Connie Harper

• District 7: Brad Anderson*

West Lafayette Community School Corp., at-large (choose 4): Amy Austin*, Maria Koliantz, George Lyle, David Purpura, Beau Scott and Yue Yin*.

Public questions

• Shall the Constitution of the State of Indiana be amended to remove the state superintendent of public instruction from the list of officeholders who shall discharge the powers and duties of the governor if the office of the governor and lieutenant governor are both vacant?

• Shall Indiana Supreme Court Justice Mark S. Massa be retained in office?

• Shall Indiana Supreme Court Justice Derek Read Molter be retained in office?

• Shall Indiana Supreme Court Justice Loretta Rush be retained in office?

• Shall Indiana Appeals Court Judge Rudolph Reginald Pyle III be retained in office?

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