Indiana's redistricting bill passed the Senate's elections committee, clearing its first hurdle in the chamber that has been reticent to take up the issue.

The 6-3 vote came after hours of testimony from Hoosiers representing both sides of the debate, competing at times with the echo of protesters outside the Senate chamber.

The bill now heads to the Senate floor, where the full chamber is poised to vote on it before the end of the week.

The Republican who voted with Democrats against the bill, Sen. Greg Walker of Columbus, had given an emotional speech prior to his vote.

"I fear for this institution," Walker said. "I fear for Indiana and all states if we allow intimidation and threats to become the norm."

The Indiana Statehouse is in the national spotlight this week as President Dona

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