Indiana’s senior Republican senator, Jim Banks, joined the Hammer and Nigel Show to discuss three pressing issues for everyday Americans: soaring gas and grocery prices, federal student aid, and the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.
Gas prices and cost‑of‑living concerns
“These days, it’s high gas prices, affordability,” Banks said. He argued that the federal government must work with state leaders to bring down the price of gasoline and groceries, which are hurting working‑class families across the nation.
Bank’s remarks came with a reminder that the United States’ ongoing conflict with Iran is a key factor in energy markets. He suggested that a diplomatic resolution would cause gas prices to drop “immediately,” though he warned that such a resolution “can’t come soon enough.”
Pell for Americans Act
During the interview, Banks highlighted his newly introduced Pell for Americans Act, which would restrict Pell Grant eligibility to U.S. citizens and nationals. Currently, certain illegal immigrants can receive federal student aid under existing law.
“Pell Grants are student aid grants to low‑income, working‑class kids that want to go to college,” he explained. “But here’s the crazy thing about it, guys. Those Pell Grants also go to illegal immigrants. And I’ve fought against that over the years, but I introduced this bill yesterday.”
The proposal mirrors a 1994 House measure (H.R. 4262) that sought to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require citizenship for Pell recipients. Banks does not expect Democratic senators to back the bill, noting that the Democratic Party has shifted “significantly to the left since the 1990s.”
Midterm elections and the political stakes
Turning to the 2026 midterms, Banks warned voters that the Democratic Party has become “the socialist Democrat Party,” prioritizing the interests of illegal immigrants over American citizens.
“This is not my grandpa’s Democrat Party,” he said. “This is the socialist Democrat Party. They’re more interested in and advocating for the interests of illegal immigrants than American citizens. And that’s what the election comes down to.”
He urged constituents to get to the polls, emphasizing that the outcome will shape policies on energy costs, immigration enforcement, and education funding.
Other legislative priorities
Banks also reaffirmed his support for the American Tech Workforce Act, which aims to strengthen the nation’s technology sector and protect American jobs.
He closed the conversation with a nod to Indiana University football, reminding listeners that local pride and national policy can go hand‑in‑hand.
For the full interview, listeners can tune in to the Hammer and Nigel Show.
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.
