Democratic strategist challenging Rep. Andre Carson in Indiana

Democratic strategist George Hornedo on Wednesday launched a primary challenge against nine-term Rep. Andre Carson (D-Ind.) in Indiana’s 7th Congressional District. 

“For nearly 20 years, we’ve had the same leadership in Washington. That place, those people supposedly representing us, aren’t working for Indianapolis,” Hornedo said in a video announcement on the social platform X. 

“The status quo is not working. Indy deserves leaders that fight for results, not just re-election,” he added. “We need better players on the field.”

Hornedo, 34, appears as one of a handful of younger, progressive challengers vying to oust longtime Democratic incumbents amid mounting frustration with the old guard and growing calls for new leadership in the party. 

At least three other long-serving members of the House, including former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), have already drawn younger primary opponents in recent weeks. There’s also speculation that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) could challenge Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.).

Carson, 50, is notably younger than House lawmakers’ median age of 57.5 years, though he’s served in the House since 2008.

“I respect Congressman Carson, but after nearly two decades in office, too many folks are still struggling. Why would we double down on the same people that got us into this mess?” Hornedo said.

Carson, who succeeded his late grandmother Julia Carson in the Indianapolis-area House seat, has easily won reelection fights, triumphing again last year by roughly 40 points against a Republican challenger. 

“I’m proud to have brought over one billion dollars back to my district, including investments in infrastructure, bus rapid transit, and economic development. I’ve had over 24 bills signed into law under Republican and Democratic presidents,” Carson said in a statement shared with The Hill. “I’ve always invited new voices to the conversation — we all need to work together to defeat Donald Trump’s extreme agenda.”

Hornedo leads a strategy firm in the Hoosier state. He was a communications aide at the Department of Justice under the Obama administration and later worked on Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign.

Updated at 12:24 p.m. EDT