Speaker Mike Johnson is set to engage in a critical conference call with Indiana House Republicans this weekend, a move that marks a significant step in his involvement with the state's congressional redistricting efforts. This comes just before the Indiana House session scheduled to address the redrawing of congressional maps, a matter that has increasingly drawn national attention.

According to sources familiar with the situation and an invitation reviewed by POLITICO, the conference call is slated for 1 p.m. Saturday, setting the stage for discussions that could reshape Indiana's political landscape. The session is particularly noteworthy as it signals a departure from Johnson's previous stance, where he emphasized redistricting as a state issue, steering clear of direct engagement.

The involvement of the Speaker underscores the stakes at hand, especially with the looming midterm elections and the Republicans' precarious hold on their thin majority in the House. Last week's communications between Johnson and GOP Indiana Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray highlighted these concerns. Bray, who has been a key figure in the Senate's resistance to redistricting, received a call from Johnson stressing the importance of maintaining control in the House.

POLITICO's report sheds light on the proposed redrawing plans that could affect the 1st and 7th congressional districts, potentially benefiting Johnson with two additional seats. This strategic shift could be a game-changer for the GOP in Indiana, aligning with broader national efforts to secure Republican dominance.

However, challenges remain. Bray recently indicated a change in stance, suggesting that his caucus would make a definitive decision on December 8, when they reconvene. Despite this potential progress, insiders close to the process remain skeptical, pointing out that the Senate still lacks the necessary votes to push the redistricting forward. This uncertainty has also led to heightened tensions, with some involved facing personal threats over the contentious issue.

As the situation unfolds, Johnson's proactive engagement might just tip the scales in favor of redistricting, a move that could redefine political alignments in Indiana for years to come. With both local and national eyes on the upcoming sessions, the outcomes of these discussions could very well dictate the political future not just for Indiana, but for the broader strategic landscape of U.S. congressional politics.