Dan Schaetzle was elected St. Joseph County Council President on Tuesday, Jan. 7, and his fellow Republican Council members say his election will put power in the hands of Democrats.

Council members Amy Drake, Randy Figg, Joe Thomas and Andy Rutten released the following statement:

“In 2022, Republicans were given a historic opportunity to lead the Council for the first time. Mr. Schaetzle has displayed a pattern of failing to work with the Council majority to move the county forward.”

“Tonight’s vote was the ultimate betrayal by Schaetzle to his Republican colleagues and to the voters of his district. Mr. Schaetzle’s selfish desire to be president at all costs meant he was willing to trade the majority of leadership positions to the Democrats to ensure his installation as leader of the Council. His willingness to gamble away the Republican’s majority for personal gain is disgraceful.”

“As the remaining Republican Council Members, we remain committed to the Republican values the voters of our districts elected us on and will continue to serve the people of St. Joseph County with integrity.”

“We call on Mr. Schaetzle to formally renounce his association with the Republican Party as he no longer adheres to the principles we hold dear.”

Schatzle issued a statement to WSBT saying he believes the government formed will be the most effective way for the St Joe County Council to address changes facing our county and that they intend to work in a bipartisan fashion.