Mishawaka Denies Endorsement of Judge Jason Cichowicz

City Officials Clarify Misleading Campaign Claim

Mishawaka, IN—St. Joseph County Judge of Probate Court, Jason Cichowicz, sparked controversy today after his campaign disseminated an email alleging that the City of Mishawaka endorsed his candidacy. The email, which quoted "Mishawaka Endorses Judge Jason Cichowicz," has led to confusion and raised questions about the city's role in the judicial race.

09/26/24 Newsletter titled: "Mishawaka Endorses Jason Cichowicz"

Concerned citizens reached out to Redress South Bend asking us to investigate the legitimacy of the city of Mishawaka's endorsement. In response, Redress South Bend reached out to the Mayor's Office to clarify the situation. We were transferred to Matthew Lentsch, Executive Director of Development & Governmental Affairs. Lentsch firmly stated that the City of Mishawaka has not endorsed any candidate in the St. Joseph County Judge of Probate Court race. Lentsch also emphasized that it is not within the city's practice to endorse candidates. While individual governmental officials may express personal support for candidates, such endorsements do not represent the city of Mishawaka's position or imply collective civic backing. The incident underlines the importance of clear communication in the electoral process and the necessity for campaigns to present information accurately to the public.

Screenshot From Cichowicz' Endorsement Video

Personal Note

I commend the City of Mishawaka for its transparency and responsiveness in providing information through departments like the Legal Department and Mayor's Office. There's much that the City of South Bend could learn from Mishawaka's efficiency and amiable approach. Interacting with government entities and utilizing public resources should be a straightforward and positive experience, not a struggle.