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On January 8, 2026, Councilwoman Amy Drake filed for Republican State Convention Delegate, mistakenly representing the wrong district. Despite thanking the clerk's office for assistance, she later claimed unfair treatment by clerks during a hearing. Acknowledging her error, Drake's argument shifted blame to clerks for inconsistent support, despite no documented misconduct.

A federal audit of the South Bend Community School Corporation revealed significant issues in financial oversight and documentation related to community organization payments. The audit questioned $188,270 in spending on services by groups like Mamas Against Violence, citing a lack of records and approved agreements, highlighting broader management concerns.

The South Bend Common Council granted a six-year tax abatement of approximately $112,000 to Burton’s Laundry, despite owner David Nufer refusing to disclose the wages for four promised jobs during a council meeting. The abatement, justified by job creation, raised concerns regarding transparency and wage expectations, yet was unanimously approved.

Senate Bill 248, introduced by Indiana State Sen. Linda Rogers, proposed replacing South Bend's elected school board with one appointed by the Indiana secretary of education. This raised concerns about local control, as Republican leaders traditionally argue that education decisions should be made by those closest to the community. Advocates question the contradiction of removing voter input.

A court hearing is scheduled for March 10 regarding a lawsuit challenging Dan Schaetzle's placement on the Republican primary ballot for St. Joseph County Council. The appeal, filed by Griffin Nate, disputes an Election Board decision that allowed Schaetzle to remain despite claims he is not a “Republican in good standing.”

Nate challenged the St. Joseph County Election Board's decision to keep Schaetzle on the ballot, claiming local bias and seeking a venue change. Judge John Broden denied this, asserting the board operates independently from county government. The lawsuit continues as election officials prepare primary ballots amidst controversy over Schaetzle's eligibility.

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — St. Joseph County Clerk Amy Rolfes issued a public statement to defend her elections office after Elections and Voter Registration...

St. Joseph County Circuit Court Judge John Broden heard an appeal regarding the candidacy of Dan Schaetzle for the Republican primary ballot after a challenge from Griffin Nate, who claims Schaetzle is not a “Republican in good standing.” The Election Board previously ruled in favor of Schaetzle's eligibility. A decision is pending.

On February 25, 2026, Amy Drake was removed from the Republican state convention delegate ballot by the St. Joseph County Election Board for incorrectly listing her district on the CAN-37 form. Despite recognizing her error and emphasizing fairness, the board upheld the filing deadline, highlighting the necessity of accountability in public office.

SOUTH BEND, Ind., Feb. 25, 2026 — The future of the Portage Manor property drew new questions Wednesday after St. Joseph County Surveyor Derek...

Matt Clayton, a seasoned firefighter and paramedic, is running for St. Joseph County Council District B. He proposes significant property tax rebates, claiming county surpluses warrant tax relief for homeowners. Clayton's "Clayton Tax Plan" would return 75% of budget surpluses to taxpayers, addressing rising costs and advocating for responsible spending.

Marshall Circuit Court Judge Janette E. Surrisi ruled that South Bend, Indiana, can pursue eminent domain to acquire two parking lots from Portage Township for redevelopment efforts. The township argues the lots are essential for public use. Despite objections, the case will proceed, and Portage Township can appeal the decision.

South Bend officials, including Mayor James Mueller, assert adherence to federal and state laws. However, the city has dismissed multiple resident complaints regarding violations of local ordinances as "frivolous," despite acknowledging their validity. This raises concerns about compliance and transparency, leading to proposed legislation to eliminate the complaint process altogether.

On January 23, 2026, South Bend Police Chief Scott Ruszkowski announced his candidacy for St. Joseph County sheriff, emphasizing the importance of transparency. However, under his leadership, the South Bend Police Department has consistently limited public access to information, suggesting that transparency is conditional and controlled rather than genuine.