To the editor:
Our congresswoman, Erin Houchin, is an academically trained politician, holding a master’s degree in political management from The George Washington University. You would, then, expect her to perform one of the basic responsibilities of an elected representative: meet the people she represents.
During her first campaign for Congress in 2022, Houchin apparently did meet the people, scheduling “Meet and Greet” coffees in nearly every county of the 9th District.
But during her second campaign in 2024, when asked about debating Democratic candidate Tim Peck, Houchin said, “I have no plans for a debate,” adding, “my position is we each have the opportunity to go out and to talk to the voters about what each of us will bring, and they decide.”
So is she talking to voters in 2026 for her third campaign?
Public opportunities to hear from her directly have been limited. Her official congressional “Events” calendar says, “There are currently no posted events.”
Public forums exist. On April 14, five 9th District candidates publicly debated science, technology and environmental issues in Bloomington. Houchin was invited but was unable to attend.
The League of Women Voters has scheduled another 9th District candidate forum for Oct. 3. The League reports that Houchin did not respond to its invitation.
When candidates ask for your vote, you deserve the opportunity to ask them why. Congresswoman Houchin previously said candidates should “go out and to talk to the voters.”
I completely agree.
Congress is in recess now until after the election.
So when?
Ray Wisman, lifelong citizen of the 9th District.
