I will admit — until recently, my involvement in local politics has been limited. But in recent months, my concern for our community has grown, along with a deeper understanding of how much local elections directly impact the safety and well-being of St. Joseph County.
That is why I am writing today.
We have an important opportunity before us: to elect a leader who embodies experience, integrity and a genuine commitment to our community. Lt. Earl Wigfall is that leader.
Though he entered the race later than others, what matters most is that someone of his character and qualifications is on the ballot. With 25 years of service in our sheriff’s department, he brings not only experience, but the ability to lead effectively from day one.
His service extends beyond law enforcement. His work with a large school system reflects his dedication to mentoring and protecting our youth. As a trainer within the department, he has built strong relationships grounded in respect and trust. As an Air Force veteran, a family man and a committed member of this community, he represents the values we want in our sheriff.
This election is not just about choosing a candidate — it’s about choosing the future of our community.
Please make your voice heard and join me in voting for Lt. Earl Wigfall for sheriff of St. Joseph County.
Alma Powell
South Bend
The best choice
I had the honor of serving Elkhart County as a county commissioner for 16 years, representing District 1. During my time on the board of commissioners, I worked with the candidates running for the office of Elkhart County sheriff, and I understand the challenge they have agreed to take on by running for this position.
I believe that Capt. Mike Culp is the best choice to lead the sheriff’s office. I have gotten to know Mike through his numerous leadership roles in the department. He has demonstrated himself to be a capable, prepared, professional officer who makes the department proud.
I give Mike my full support in his run for Elkhart County sheriff. I will be voting for him in the May 5 Republican primary, and I hope you will as well.
Frank Lucchese
Elkhart
Serving his community
I am writing to express my strong and enthusiastic support for Dave Thomas as the next County Council representative for District E.
I have known Dave for over 40 years. He has 12 years of proven county experience as the former County Commissioner, he understands budgets, and he is a local accountant. He has never voted for a tax increase. Dave has always served his community through volunteer work such as scouting, youth sports, firefighting, and he helped operate the parish food pantry.
At a time when our community needs steady leadership and real commitment, Dave stands out as someone who genuinely cares about the people he serves. His dedication to our district is clear, and his willingness to listen, engage and take action reflects the kind of leadership we urgently need. District E deserves a representative who will not only speak for its residents, but also fight for them! I firmly believe Dave Thomas is that person.
Choosing the right leadership will shape our future. I am confident that Dave Thomas will serve with honesty, accountability and a tireless commitment to doing what is right for District E.
Rose Michalski
South Bend
A leader
Lt. Earl Wigfall is an example of a leader. He has an open door policy that allows officers and citizens to feel welcomed. His open door policy as a supervisor of many also ensures that every voice is heard and every concern is taken seriously. My father would make a great sheriff due to his extensive years of experience working with the St. Joseph County Police Department and most importantly his character to serve.
I also believe he brings valuable knowledge and sound judgment to any situation that he would encounter as a sheriff of St. Joseph County. The sheriff of St. Joseph County should have well-rounded experience/training within the department, and Lt. Wigfall has worked alongside corrections officers of the county jail, courthouse deputies and road patrol.
My father always begins his day by sharing a Bible scripture and goes to work ready to lead, serve and protect. My father’s positive attitude inspires those around him to uphold the highest standards. Lt. Earl Wigfall knows the importance of being fair and showing respect to everyone. His dedication, experience and fairness make him a leader that the community of St. Joseph County can trust.
Exavier Wigfall
South Bend
A professional
I am retired from the Elkhart County sheriff’s office. I worked closely with Mike Culp for many years. I have always known Mike to be extremely professional and a great representative of the office. Mike has never shied away from hard work; this was obvious early in his career at his willingness to jump into leadership roles. I watched his career grow through the ranks he served in.
Mike possesses very specific skills that directly qualify him to serve us as our next sheriff. I urge all Elkhart County residents to vote Mike Culp on May 5.
Jeff Troxel
Syracuse
Her vision
I’m proud to support Lori Camp in the Democratic primary for County Council, District E.
Lori brings a clear-eyed, practical vision to what county government should do: grow our economy, listen to residents and spend tax dollars like they actually matter.
On economic development, Lori understands that good jobs don’t happen by accident. It takes a council member willing to support the small businesses and industries that form the backbone of our community, and to pursue growth that benefits working families.
On responsive government, Lori’s commitment is straightforward: She’ll listen. In a time when too many constituents feel ignored by their elected officials, that kind of genuine accessibility is rare and valuable.
And on fiscal responsibility, Lori knows that every dollar the county spends belongs to the taxpayers who earned it. She is committed to ensuring those dollars are used wisely and effectively, without waste or misplaced priorities.
St. Joseph County has real challenges and real opportunities ahead. We need someone steady, serious and genuinely invested in this community sitting at that table.
I urge District E residents to vote for Lori Camp in the primary.
Carrie A. Bowie
South Bend
He shows up
I have known Lt. Earl Wigfall for approximately 15 years. As his daughter-in-law, I have had a close view of his character, values and deep commitment to his family, work and community. I am writing this letter to express my strong support and endorsement of his candidacy for St. Joseph County sheriff.
Throughout his career, I have consistently witnessed the way he leads by example. Even while serving as a lieutenant, he has stepped in during times of staffing shortages at the jail, working overtime alongside his colleagues to ensure the safety, stability and needs of the facility were met. This is not occasional behavior for him, it reflects the way he consistently shows up for his team and community.
Lt. Wigfall is also the only current Democratic candidate who is actively employed within the St. Joseph County Police Department. That distinction matters, because it means he is already embedded in the department he seeks to lead. He understands its daily operations, its challenges and the people who make it work.
He leads with integrity, prioritizes people over ego and remains committed to service above self. I fully encourage you to vote Lt. Earl Wigfall for St. Joseph County sheriff.
Haley Wigfall
South Bend
Local representation
It is said that all politics are local and that is so true. That is why I support Amy Drake and Jamie O’Brien for St. Joseph County Council.
They are not relying on out-of-town and party establishment money and support. Their support is local and is driven by local interests.
O’Brien and Drake both care for their friends’ and neighbors’ concerns and oppose projects that will have long range negative impacts on our community ― like industrial data centers and blighting cell towers.
Unlike their opponents, they are not tied to establishment politicians.
A vote for Drake and O’Brien is a vote against more data centers in Granger, a vote against out-of-county and out-of-state interests, and a vote for local interests.
Steve Geschke
Mishawaka
Never wavers
Supporting my husband for sheriff of St. Joseph County is about more than politics — it’s about the man I’ve known and loved for 40 years. Through four decades of marriage, I have seen his character tested, and he has never wavered. When things get difficult, he doesn’t walk away; he leans into his faith and works tirelessly until the job is done.
He is a natural problem-solver with a brilliant mind and a steady hand. That same dedication is clear in our home, where he has been a devoted father, raising our three sons and mentoring their friends to be responsible, hardworking men of integrity. Whether he’s focusing on his passion for training officers or mentoring someone new to the field, he is always teaching by example.
To me, he is an unspoken hero. He doesn’t care about the spotlight or public praise — he cares about results. He chooses the right path because it’s the right thing to do, period. St. Joseph County deserves a leader with his deep resilience and heart. He has spent a lifetime proving he is the right man for this responsibility, and I am so incredibly proud to stand by his side.
Anita Wigfall
South Bend
She listens
I’m proud to endorse Lori Camp for St. Joseph County Council.
Lori will be an excellent public servant as a county councilwoman in District E because she cares deeply about South Bend, values community input and understands that strong communities are built on fiscal responsibility and smart economic development.
Lori understands the importance of creating good-paying jobs while supporting the small businesses and local industries that keep St. Joseph County thriving. She knows that success isn’t just about attracting new opportunities, but also about strengthening those already rooted here.
Equally important, Lori is committed to responsive government. She listens. She shows up. And she values the voices of the people she serves. In a time when many feel disconnected from their local leadership, Lori brings a practical, community-first approach that puts residents at the center of decision-making.
A strong leader with a steady voice and expertise in both city government and the private sector, Lori will be an asset to the county council on day one. Thoughtful and honest — two of my favorite traits — the entire St. Joseph County community will benefit from her leadership and strength of character.
I highly endorse her candidacy.
Jamee Decio
Goshen
The writer is a Democratic candidate for Congress in Indiana’s 2nd District.
The environment
I don’t know about you, but I really don’t enjoy paying electric bills these days. What happened to the good old days when they were more affordable?
The Trump administration recently ordered two coal plants in Indiana to continue to operate, even though the companies who own them were planning to retire them. Now NIPSCO and Duke Energy say the ever-increasing cost to run them is being passed on to ratepayers.
This move doesn’t make sense financially for Indiana electric customers nor for environmental reasons. This is why earlier this month Indiana Congressman Frank Mrvan, D-Highland, asked U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright tough questions regarding energy bills. Wright responded with claims that ratepayers will now have more “reliable” energy with fewer blackouts than during the Biden administration. This is not a fair tradeoff as renewable energy is cheap, abundant, and battery technology advances have enabled energy storage from solar and wind for later use.
May 5 is primary election day in Indiana. Please vote for a candidate who is environmentally and financially conscious when it comes to energy regulation. Your bank account and your neighbors will thank you.
Nick Thurin
South Bend
Leads with integrity
I am a former St. Joseph County Republican Party chair. I am writing to express my strong support for state Sen. Linda Rogers — and concern about the increasingly negative tone surrounding this race.
I have known Rogers for over 20 years. My support is based on her proven record of effectiveness, integrity and principled leadership. By objective measures of legislative effectiveness, including recent national legislative effectiveness studies, Rogers has been recognized as one of the most effective legislators in Indiana. That is not by accident, but the result of thoughtful policymaking and a genuine commitment to her constituents.
A primary challenge is not the issue — spirited debate is healthy. What should concern voters is the shift toward personal attacks over substance. Rogers is not being challenged because she failed, but because she chose principle over pressure, particularly in opposing an ill-timed redistricting effort.
Since when has independent judgment become a liability? Strong leadership requires the courage to stand firm.
Rogers asks hard questions, does the work and leads with integrity. That is the kind of leadership we should value.
I encourage voters to look past the noise and support a leader who has earned our trust through results.
Matthew Lentsch
Mishawaka
Well-prepared
I send this endorsement in support of Capt. Mike Culp in his campaign to be elected as your next Elkhart County Sheriff. I have known Mike’s family for over 25 years and have found them to be upstanding citizens and great members of our community.
Mike is always polite and professional, and he thinks through issues before he speaks. He embodies the best traits expected of a sheriff. His 20-plus years of law enforcement experience at the sheriff’s office have prepared him well for this new role.
I give Mike Culp my full support in the upcoming May 5 GOP primary election, and I know that he will serve our community well as our Elkhart County sheriff.
State Sen. Blake Doriot, District 12
Goshen
Public trust
As a lifelong resident of South Bend, I am so excited to support Lt. Earl Wigfall for sheriff of St. Joseph County. I have known Lt. Wigfall for over 10 years and have consistently seen him lead with compassion, respect and integrity.
Throughout his 25 years of service to both his country and our community, he has demonstrated commitment to doing the job the right way; without controversy and with a focus on public trust. He has not only served in the field but has also developed and implemented meaningful training for officers, helping strengthen professionalism and performance within the department.
Constituents can count on Lt. Wigfall to listen. He takes the time to understand concerns and follows through with thoughtful solutions that improve both the department and community relationships.
He represents the values of his party with consistency and professionalism, and more importantly, he represents the kind of transparent leadership our community deserves.
I encourage voters to support Lt. Earl Wigfall for sheriff.
Darcy A. Hoffman
South Bend
Born to serve
Democrat Dave Thomas was an ideal county commissioner. He is a true listening public servant of the highest caliber in every sense of the meaning, almost as if from another era. Dave was born to serve.
Thank God Dave Thomas is returning to county government and will certainly benefit the community when elected as the District E county councilman. Vote for accountant Dave Thomas on May 5.
Dave’s previous 12 years of county service, as commissioner built his impressive county and government knowledge and experience, which will be a benefit to the legislative council, as it was to the executive branch.
Twelve years is not a hockey season, it is a hockey vocational career commitment, a vocational tour of duty. Over the 12 years Dave served as county commissioner, he demonstrated great character, serving on several county boards and working on many county projects. There he learned and shaped the county for the better in countless ways. He was reelected in gratitude for his fine work, serving three terms.
Send Dave Thomas on another deployment to serve us fairly, honestly, with character and distinction. Vote for Democrat Dave Thomas on May 5.
Austin Williams
South Bend
The right choice
I am writing to express my strong support for Earl Wigfall Sr. in the upcoming election for St. Joseph County sheriff.
While many voters may feel inclined to support familiar names, I believe it is important to carefully consider the qualifications, experience and dedication each candidate brings to the role. Earl possesses firsthand knowledge of the jail system, its operations and the individuals who work within it. This experience has given him a clear understanding of both the challenges and opportunities for meaningful improvement. More importantly, he is committed to serving with integrity, fairness and a genuine concern for the well-being of the community.
Leadership in law enforcement requires more than recognition, it requires compassion, accountability and the willingness to make decisions that benefit the greater good. Sometimes, the right choice is not the most familiar one, but the one who is best prepared to serve. I trust that under his leadership, our community will be in capable and responsible hands.
I respectfully encourage you to consider his candidacy and support him in this election.
Margaret Batteast
South Bend
Experienced
If you desire an experienced, dedicated and trustworthy public servant, vote for Dave Thomas for St. Joseph County Council, District E. Dave worked for my company as our company controller for over 20 years. During this time, while working full-time, he also served our community for 12 years as a county commissioner. All the while, he never neglected responsibility to either.
Dave was always working to better our community and the welfare of its residents. Dave is experienced with finance controls and budgets, and is always willing to listen. Please vote for Dave Thomas for County Council, District E!
Ken Woodworth
South Bend
Hardworking, humble
Mike Culp is a wonderful husband and father to our three adult children. He has always provided for us and made sure we were a priority. Mike has a love for this area, and he has lived here his entire life. He has always made himself available to the sheriff’s office and the community. Whether it is phone calls or a knock at the door from a neighbor that needs advice, Mike is always ready to serve others.
Mike has given more than two decades of service to the Elkhart County sheriff’s office. I watched him earn every promotion: corporal, sergeant, captain.
He commanded the patrol division; responsible for providing law enforcement services to more than 100,000 people. When the sheriff asked him to take over administrative services, he took that on too: budgets, hiring, training, security. There isn’t an initiative or project at the office that he has turned down.
Mike grew up outside New Paris, went to Fairfield, got his degree at Ball State and came right back home. We’ve been married almost 25 years, raised three kids here, and go to church here. Mike has volunteered his time with local organizations. This community isn’t just where he works. It’s where we live.
Mike is the same man at the dinner table that he is in uniform. Hardworking, caring and humble, putting others before himself. I’m asking you to vote for Mike Culp for sheriff in the Republican primary on May 5.
Angela Culp
New Paris/Syracuse
This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Letter writers offer endorsements for primary candidates | Letters
Reporting by Letters to the Editor, South Bend Tribune / South Bend Tribune
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