The former chairman of the St. Joseph County Democratic Party has formed an exploratory committee as he considers running for county commissioner.

If he does, it’s will be Jason Critchlow against Republican incumbent Andy Kostielney.

The exploratory committee allows Critchlow the chance to raise money for a potential campaign.

Crtichlow also ran for South Bend Mayor in 2019, coming in 2nd place to James Mueller.

You can read his statement below:

I believe we have made great strides as a community, but in order to achieve the next level of success, we must work toward the vision of creating a community in which we all want to live – where families can raise their children knowing they will be healthy, safe, well educated, and have the opportunity to earn a livable wage. 

Progress should not be measured by election cycles. Rather, progress should be measured by movement toward goals. I believe our ultimate goal should be to create a modern, safe, healthy, and economically strong community that puts families first.

That is why I am announcing that I have opened an exploratory committee to seek the office of St. Joseph County Commissioner, District 1 in the next election.

As County Commissioner, I will provide the desperately needed fresh perspective to the leadership of our community. With over a decade of management experience and local civic involvement, I will be the sensible problem solver that is able to bring people together and take the necessary steps to overcome the barriers and obstacles in our path.

At this moment, our community is facing two crises – the COVID-19 pandemic and surging crime rates. These are both issues that require strong leadership and an inclusive community response. Ending the pandemic responsibly and increasing public safety for every neighborhood, individual, and family must be top priorities. 

With this next election, we get to choose what kind of community we want to be in the decades to come. The work we do today to create equity, improve our local education systems, build an inclusive economy, and invest in infrastructure will pay dividends for many future generations.

My wife Olivia and I chose to raise our children here in the community we love and the effort to create a better future is vitally important to us. I am excited to work towards building the strong community that we all want to see.

I am so appreciative of your engagement and look forward to the road ahead!  

Sincerely,

Jason Critchlow