Snyder Responds to Appointed State Senator Zay’s Racist Comments

Gary Snyder, Democratic candidate for Indiana Senate District 17, issued this statement in response to reading the text exchange between Andy Zay and a constituent:

“I am deeply disturbed by the views expressed by Zay in this conversation. Our state representatives are there to serve all of the people of their district. While Zay is free to hold the belief that “racism is not real”; he is denying the very real experiences of voters he is representing. Indiana is one of five states without a hate/ bias crime law, having a representative who holds these views has serious implications for communities that may be at risk.”

“I can only imagine the shock and disappointment our communities of color may be feeling as a result of Zay’s words. I whole heartedly reject the racist and sexist attitudes that Zay displayed in that conversation. The strength of this community, of District 17 and of this country will always be the people. Views like the ones expressed by Zay, only serve to divide and weaken our communities. Even though I am running for state senate, today I speak as a constituent and a voter. I’m calling on my fellow Hoosiers in district 17 and around the state to join me in rejecting these un-American views this November.”