During the special Portraits and Perspectives event hosted by Progressive Indiana Network in downtown Indianapolis on February 21st, I had the opportunity to sit down with Tabitha Zeigler, candidate for Indiana’s 8th Congressional District. Covering a vast stretch of Southwest Indiana—from Fountain County down to the boot-toe —this district represents a wide range of rural, agricultural, and working-class communities.
In our conversation, we explored how a campaign message reaches across such a geographically and economically diverse district. Tabitha grounded her answer in something simple but powerful: Hoosier values. Across county lines, she argued, most families want the same core things—stable jobs, decent healthcare, clean air and water, and a better future for their children.
We discussed why more progressive candidates are stepping forward this cycle, and whether today’s political divide is truly left versus right—or something deeper. Tabitha framed it as a growing divide between extreme wealth and everyday Americans, suggesting that partisan labels often fade when communities recognize shared economic struggles.
Our conversation moved through issues like corporate influence in politics, tariffs and their downstream effects on consumers, local business investment, food independence, and strengthening rural economies. We also spent time discussing neurodivergent advocacy, autism awareness, and how lived experience shapes leadership and public service.
Throughout the discussion, we focused on what authentic representation looks like in a district this large and diverse. Tabitha emphasized community resilience, local engagement, and empowering Hoosiers to regain independence—whether through supporting small businesses, strengthening local agriculture, or advocating for vulnerable populations.
This episode captures a candid and wide-ranging exchange about power, accountability, and what it means to serve Southwest Indiana in this political moment.
