Post Caucus Update: Chair Jackie Horvath's Commitment to Party Growth
Date: 03/05/25
Author: Logan Foster
On Saturday, March 1st, over 200 Republican precinct officials gathered in person to elect the new leadership team for the St. Joseph County Republican Party. Incumbent Chair Jackie Horvath successfully secured re-election, defeating challenger and County Councilwoman Amy Drake. Horvath’s campaign for Chair emphasized Horvath’s leadership, achievement, and the party’s forward momentum, which resonated with the electorate.
Horvath assumed her leadership role in May 2024, following the primary elections. She succeeded former Party Chair Tyler Gillean and quickly demonstrated her capacity to guide the party toward success. Under her leadership during the 2024 General Election, the St. Joseph County Republican Party achieved notable victories, winning 7 out of 8 contested races. The results are as follows:
County Council DF: Randy Figg – 67.31%
County Council DI: Andy Rutten – 59.77%
County Commissioner D3: Tony Hazen – 58.51%
Probate Judge: Loris Zappia – 54.05%
County Coroner: Patricia Jordan – 52.76%
County Surveyor: Derek Dieter – 50.08%
County Recorder: Candace Brown – 50.04%
County Treasurer (Lost): Michael Rose – 49.33%
Horvath’s measured approach to party leadership has been instrumental in her success. She has demonstrated consistent discretion when addressing internal party matters, carefully striking a balance between making public statements and maintaining impartiality. This restraint aligns with President Calvin Coolidge’s maxim, “Don’t expect to build up the weak by pulling down the strong.” Horvath has prioritized the long-term growth and stability of the party, resisting the allure of short-term political gains.
Notably, Horvath adheres steadfastly to Ronald Reagan’s 11th Commandment, “Thou shalt not speak ill of any fellow Republican,” refraining from making statements that could harm members of her own party. Her ability to exercise precise judgment—saying the right thing at the right time—has earned her respect within the political community and secured her a four-year term as party chair. This steadfast commitment to principle and strategy highlights Horvath’s effective leadership.
Upcoming Event
The St. Joseph County Republican Party will host the “Chairman’s Breakfast” on Saturday, March 15th, 2025, at 10 a.m. The event will be held at The St. Joseph Conference Center at The Holiday Inn (1208 E. Douglas Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545). Tickets are available at $25 per person or $20 for sustaining members. ("Breakfast Club Members" or higher attend for free!)
U.S. Representative Rudy Yakym will be the special guest speaker at the breakfast. To purchase tickets or learn more about the event, visit the SJCGOP website. We look forward to having breakfast with you on Saturday!
