Sen. Andy Zay, R-Huntington, speaks with Sen. Ryan Mishler, R-Mishawaka, in the Senate chamber on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. The congressional candidate is an outspoken Catholic. Photo by Whitney Downard, Indiana Capital Chronicle.

By Niki Kelly
Indiana Capital Chronicle

INDIANAPOLIS — After a week of swatting attempts on his colleagues, GOP Sen. Andy Zay on Friday, Nov. 21 confirmed a bomb threat at his vehicle rental business.

“Yesterday, my business in Huntington was targeted with a bomb threat, which is part of the recent troubling pattern against lawmakers in Indiana,” he said in a news release.

“It’s unfortunate that my family and I continue to be threatened for my work as a public servant and state senator,” Zay continued. “This is no way to weigh in on any public issue, even if you do not agree with my stance. My office is always open, and I encourage constituents with any concerns to reach out.”

Zay is supportive of a controversial proposal to redistrict Indiana’s congressional boundaries – and make Indiana’s two blue districts red – ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Four fellow Senate Republican caucus members have been targeted in attempted swattings this week, with another reporting unspecified “violent threats,” but they are all against redistricting or are undecided.

“Swatting” involves hoax calls or reports to emergency services intended to trigger armed responses – and can have lethal consequences for unwitting victims at the swatted location.

“I want to be clear: I strongly condemn these acts, which have no place in our political process,” Zay said. “While the intent behind these intimidation threats seems to be to instill fear in public officials, I can assure my constituents that I remain committed to serving our district, being your voice and continuing my work at the Statehouse.”

The Indiana State Police is investigating the string of incidents.

Zay thanked police and said, “I am hopeful that state and local law enforcement will be able to find those responsible and hold them accountable for their actions.”