Redistricting, Legislative Issues Discussed at GOP Gathering

Del. Delores Oates and State Sen. Timmy French spoke to local Republicans during a Warren County Republican Committee meeting on March 24, outlining their perspectives on the recent General Assembly session and key issues facing the state.

Oates, who represents the 31st District, opened by reflecting on the just-concluded 60-day legislative session.

“I am so honored to serve this community,” she said. “I’m born and raised in this area… and I’m representing the values of this community.”

She described the session as challenging, noting the volume of legislation considered.

“We heard 2,500 bills,” Oates said, adding that many proposals involved increased spending or mandates for local governments.

Oates also pointed to ongoing disagreements over the state budget.

“We spent 60 days in session… and we have no budget,” she said, noting lawmakers are expected to return in April to continue negotiations.

Among the issues she highlighted were proposed gun regulations, energy policy, and collective bargaining requirements for public employees. She expressed concern about how those policies could affect local communities, particularly regarding costs and implementation.

Oates also raised concerns about redistricting, describing it as a politically motivated effort.

State Sen. Timmy French (left) and Del. Delores Oates (right) respond to audience questions during a Warren County Republican Committee meeting on March 24.

“They said, ‘we’re going to redistrict the whole state so that… we can fight Trump,’” she said.

State Sen. Timmy French echoed similar concerns, calling redistricting a “power grab” and urging residents to stay engaged in upcoming elections.

“This is a statewide thing that we’ve got to get out,” French said.

A sign opposing gerrymandering and urging a “no” vote is displayed during the Warren County Republican Committee meeting.

French described the legislative session as “crazy” and emphasized what he called a disconnect between policymakers and rural communities.

“They don’t live as we do,” he said.

He also discussed several legislative proposals, including changes to firearm laws and landlord-tenant regulations, noting that some measures could create additional burdens for property owners.

“They just peck away at this… it’s making the housing more expensive,” French said.

Both lawmakers encouraged residents to participate in the political process, including upcoming votes.

Oates urged attendees to remain active and informed, while French emphasized the importance of turnout in future elections, including the April 21 vote.

“Please reach out to us if we can help you,” French said.

Oates also encouraged residents to engage directly with legislation by attending meetings or submitting feedback.

“There’s nothing that scares them more than looking out and seeing hundreds of people waiting to tell them they don’t like it,” she said.

The meeting concluded with a question-and-answer session on immigration policy and civic participation, during which both lawmakers stressed the importance of community involvement.