Primary candidate Q&A: U.S. House 4th District, Democrats

Two Democrats, Rimpi Girn and Derrick Holder, are vying in the May 7 primary for a spot on the November ballot to represent Indiana’s 4th District in Congress. A Q&A.

This is part of a series of Q&As with candidates in contested races in the May 7 primary in Tippecanoe County.

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Rimpi Girn, left, and Derrick Holder

Two Democrats, Rimpi Girn and Derrick Holder, are vying in the May 7 primary for a spot on the November ballot to represent Indiana’s 4^th District in Congress.

That seat is held by U.S. Rep. Jim Baird, who is seeking a fourth term in Congress and who faces a challenge in the May 7 primary from Republicans Charles Bookwalter and John Piper.

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

Early voting started April 9.

Here, Girn and Holder discuss their approach to the two-year position in the U.S. House of Representatives.

• 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 and in this particular race for political office?

Rimpi Girn: I want to be your next congresswoman of District 4 because we deserve better politics. We deserve politics that are focused on results and not bickering and egos. We deserve politics that will be about the people, that will help the people in need and not special interest. I am running now because it is time for change; it is time for a new face in the seat with better ideas who will prioritize what is best for the people in my district. Indiana needs a new face to represent Congress and I am the right one to do it.

Derrick Holder: I am running for office because I believe deeply in our community's potential to thrive with the right leadership. As a Marine Corps veteran and father, I've experienced firsthand the challenges our families face — from economic pressures to supporting our essential farmers. I want this job to actively improve lives, advocating for policies that uplift every citizen. This race represents a critical opportunity to guide our community towards a future where prosperity and justice are accessible to all. It's time for dedicated, effective leadership, and I am prepared to serve. 

Name two of your top priorities if you’re in Congress for the next two years. And how will you handle them or get them done?

Rimpi Girn: My first priority will be women's rights, because we as women should have the decision to do what we want with our bodies. This includes the right to equality, privacy and bodily integrity. I am aware of the Supreme Court decision, and I certainly do not agree with it. My second priority is investing in education because our education system is continuously being attacked and we must do better for our future generations. I will constantly work with my colleagues in the U.S. Capitol to ensure we are making adequate decisions based on what is best for our country.

Derrick Holder: My top priorities in Congress will be education reform and supporting our farmers. For education, I'll work to increase federal funding, ensuring equitable resources across all schools and introducing initiatives that enhance teacher support and technological integration. In agriculture, I'll oppose damaging policies like the LEAP pipeline and advocate for sustainable farming practices and fair-trade agreements to protect our farmers. To achieve these, I'll collaborate across the aisle, leveraging my experience as a Marine to build consensus and drive effective, bipartisan solutions.

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?

Rimpi Girn: The biggest challenges that we as a nation face are healthcare and education. Healthcare is fundamental for men and women, and we must prioritize affordable and accessible healthcare in our country. We can create a society where everyone has equal and quality healthcare. Our education system is not focusing on the fundamentals for our kids. We are failing our kids by taking away history that must be taught. We must ensure that we are enhancing an education system that is teaching our children about their history no matter their race.

Derrick Holder: The biggest challenge facing our nation in the next two years is undoubtedly the economic recovery post-pandemic, especially as we address inflation and job stability. As a member of the U.S. House, I would propose comprehensive economic policies that focus on supporting small businesses, enhancing workforce training programs and providing targeted relief to the industries hit hardest by the pandemic. By fostering a resilient economy, we can ensure sustainable growth and stability that will benefit all Americans, paving the way for a prosperous future. 

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

Rimpi Girn: I do believe that we need more immigration policies; I think we should open more visas and make sure when people do a work contract that they go back within their timeframe. This is a great country, which is why everybody wants to come here but we can do better as Congress to ensure we are helping people in need because that is ultimately why we are elected. I do not think it is morally right that we attack immigrants and paint these pictures that they are bad people because they are not. They are trying to make a way just like the rest of us in this country and we can do a better job to support them.

Derrick Holder: I propose a comprehensive overhaul of U.S. border and immigration policies that prioritizes both security and humanity. This includes enhancing border security with technology and manpower, while also expanding legal pathways for immigration to reduce illegal crossings. Additionally, I advocate for faster processing of asylum seekers through increased numbers of immigration judges, and improved conditions for detainees. These reforms aim to uphold our nation's values of compassion and fairness, while ensuring our borders remain secure and immigration is managed efficiently and humanely.

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

Rimpi Girn:  An issue on my platform is "women's rights." I would certainly back a national law on access to abortion. Women should have the right to have access to abortion if they decide. It is our bodies and we do not need men creating laws based on women's bodies. This law would grant more access to abortion. Sadly, we live in a country where this has come into reality where women are denied access to abortion because of a Supreme Court decision. I hope that one day soon, we as Congress can agree on quality access to abortion.

Derrick Holder: Yes, I would support a national law that guarantees access to abortion, ensuring that women have the right to make decisions regarding their own bodies. This law would protect and expand access to reproductive healthcare, safeguarding against state-level restrictions that undermine women's health and autonomy. It would establish clear, fair guidelines that prioritize safety, privacy and accessibility, ensuring that every woman in America has the freedom to choose, without excessive governmental interference, in accordance with established constitutional rights.

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

Rimpi Girn: The best thing Congress can do to improve access to quality healthcare is to prioritize the well-being of individuals over corporate interests. By fostering a system that values the health and welfare of every person, we can create a system where everyone has equal and fair access to quality healthcare. This includes equality and privacy. We must ensure that Blacks and minorities are given the same type of respect for healthcare as whites, and that is what I will propose to do.

Derrick Holder: The best thing Congress can do to improve access to quality healthcare is to expand Medicare to cover all Americans, ensuring affordable, universal coverage. I propose accomplishing this by gradually lowering the Medicare eligibility age and increasing funding for healthcare infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas. This approach not only broadens access but also reduces overall healthcare costs by leveraging Medicare's bargaining power to negotiate lower prices for services and medications. By uniting behind this practical expansion, we can make significant strides towards comprehensive healthcare reform. 

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

Rimpi Girn: I think that we should accept climate change but prioritize the main reasons for it. I do not think we are putting enough effort into studying climate change. I believe we can do better with our public transportation and switch to sustainable transport such as creating more bike lanes and walking routes, and we need to keep our fossil fuels in the ground. I believe we can invest in renewable energy, improve farming and encourage better diets. There are many ways that Congress can deal with questions about climate change, but this is something that we must prioritize.

Derrick Holder: Congress must take decisive action on climate change by implementing comprehensive environmental legislation. This includes investing in renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency and supporting green technology innovation to reduce carbon emissions. We should also enforce stricter emissions standards for industries and incentivize sustainable practices in agriculture and manufacturing. Additionally, Congress should work towards global cooperation on environmental policies to address this worldwide issue effectively. It's imperative to safeguard our planet for future generations while ensuring economic stability and growth through sustainable development.

Communities across the 4th District have formally protested the proposed development of a pipeline to take water from the aquifer near the Wabash River to supply water to the LEAP district in Boone County. What, if anything, should be done from a U.S. representative’s level to either encourage, regulate, or stop a proposed pipeline, whether where it was initially proposed in western Tippecanoe County or other parts of the state?

Rimpi Girn: The LEAP project should be put on hold. I believe that people are always rushing to get things done and not strategically thinking about how or who this may affect. I believe that as a U.S. representative, there should be adequate studying for this project and adequate funding. I believe we should challenge the IEDC on their plan because I do not believe they have made strategic decisions on this project. As an Indiana U.S. representative, we should propose to stop this pipeline and ensure we are making the best decision for our state.

Derrick Holder: As your U.S. Representative, I would prioritize the concerns of local communities and the environmental impact assessments of such projects. It's crucial to ensure that any development, including the LEAP pipeline, does not compromise our natural resources or the welfare of our communities. I would work to regulate this project rigorously, seek comprehensive community input, and advocate for alternatives that protect our environment and respect the voices of the constituents in the 4th District.

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

Rimpi Girn: I am fierce and dedicated to bettering our country. I come from a place where we are overlooked as people, and I want to make sure we value people first. Our job as elected officials are to serve our people, and I feel as if that separates me from my opponents because I am willing to overlook the egos and small factors and focus on bettering the people in this country. I've proudly held the title of one of the top producers/highest performing agents and brokers for three consecutive years since 2020, which then led me to open my own successful insurance business. This achievement affirmed my belief that perseverance and ethical practices can lead to excellence.

Derrick Holder: Two key aspects set me apart from my opponents: my long-standing commitment as a public servant for 26 years and my personal experience with financial hardship. My extensive service has equipped me with a deep understanding of our community's needs and the complexities of effective governance. Additionally, having lived through financial struggles myself, I uniquely empathize with those facing economic difficulties, ensuring that I prioritize policies that foster economic resilience and support for our most vulnerable citizens. These experiences are crucial for representing and championing the real needs of our community.

Candidate bios

Rimpi Girn

• Party: Democratic

• Age: Not given

• Occupation: Insurance Broker Business

• Past elected positions, if any: N/A

• Your campaign site online: www.girnforcongress.com

Derrick Holder

• Party: Democratic

• Age: 44

• Occupation: Paralegal

• Education: BA’s History and Religious Studies

• Past elected positions, if any: N/A

• Community boards or other community leadership and service: Advisory Board for Equality Indiana, former Historian American Legion Post, Assistant Coach Indian Creek High School

• Immediate family: Wife 9 years (Kristie), daughter 15 (Krislynn), Son 2 (Ian)

• Your campaign site online: derrickholder.com

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ABOUT THE MAY 7 PRIMARY

Early voting ahead of the May 7 primary election started April 9 with contested races on Tippecanoe County ballots for governor, U.S. House, several Indiana General Assembly seats, Tippecanoe County commissioner and Tippecanoe County Council at-large seats. A few things to know:

The candidates and races: For a look at all the candidates who will be on Republican and Democratic ballots in the May 7 primary in Tippecanoe County, check here.

Voter registration/ballots:  To check your voter registration and to see candidates who will be on your R or D ballot, go to the Secretary of State’s portal at www.indianavoters.com.

Early voting sites: In Tippecanoe County, registered voters may cast their ballot at any vote center.

• Starting April 9: Tippecanoe County Office Building, 20 N. Third St., Lafayette. Hours: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays (April 9-12; April 15-19; April 22-26; April 19-May 3); 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 27, and Saturday, May 4; and 8 a.m.-noon Monday, May 6.

• April 25: Black Cultural Center at Purdue, 1100 Third St., West Lafayette. Hours: Noon-6 p.m.

• April 27: West Point Fire Station, 4949 Indiana 25 South, West Point; Clarks Hill Christian Church, 9510 Pearl St., Clarks Hill; and Otterbein United Methodist Church, 405 E. Oxford St., Otterbein. Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

• April 30-May 4: Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds, 1406 Teal Road, Lafayette; John Dennis Wellness Center, 1101 Kalberer Road, West Lafayette; Eastside Assembly of God Church, 6121 E. County Road 50 South, Lafayette; Wea Ridge Baptist Church, 1051 E. County Road 430 South, Lafayette. Hours: noon-6 p.m. April 30-May 3; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 4.

Election Day vote centers: Voting on Tuesday, May 7, will be 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Registered voters in Tippecanoe County may choose any of these sites.

Lafayette

• Evangelical Covenant Church, 3600 S. Ninth St.

• Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds, 1406 Teal Road

• Northend Community Center, 2000 Elmwood Ave.

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

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

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

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

West Lafayette

• John Dennis Wellness Center, 1101 Kalberer Road

• Faith West Community Center, 1920 Northwestern Ave.

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

Outside Lafayette/West Lafayette

• Wabash Township Fire Station No. 1, 2899 Klondike Road

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

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

• Dayton Gathering Point Church, 7201 Wesleyan Drive, Dayton

• Shadeland Town Hall, 2584 Indiana 25 West

On the ballot: Here are candidates who have filed or have indicated they plan to file in Tippecanoe County races ahead of the May 7 primary.

Tippecanoe County

• Commissioner, District 2: David Byers* and Jeff Findley, R; Steven Mayoras, Libertarian; Wissam Nour, Independent

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

• County Council, at-large (3): Republicans: John Basham*, Paige Britton, Dan Dunten, Barry Richard* and Kevin Underwood*. Democrats: Katy Bunder, Ben Carson, Amanda Eldridge, Joe Mackey and Wendy Starr.

• Coroner: Carrie Costello*, R

• 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 and Sharon Negele*, 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* and Jason Gossard, R

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

Statewide

• Governor: Mike Braun, Brad Chambers, Suzanne Crouch, Eric Doden, Curtis Hill and Jamie Reitenour, R; Jennifer McCormick, D

Federal

• U.S. House, District 4: Jim Baird*, Charles Bookwalter and John Piper, R; Rimpi Girn and Derrick Holder, D

• U.S. Senate: Jim Banks, R; Valerie McCray and Marc Carmichael, D

Townships

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

• Shadeland Clerk-Treasurer: Charlene Brown, R

The general election also will include these, with filing deadlines this summer …

• School boards: Lafayette School Corp., three at-large seats; Tippecanoe School Corp. seats in District 4, District 5, District 6 and District 7; and West Lafayette Community School Corp, four at-large seats.

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