Jason Critchlow Announced South Bend Mayoral Bid

The Portage Township Trustee is the first candidate to launch a campaign for the 2027 mayoral election.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Elections

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a limestone civic archway, representing local municipal governance and the 2027 South Bend mayoral race. — Portage Township Trustee Jason Critchlow has launched his campaign for mayor of South Bend, marking the first entry in the 2027 municipal election. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Portage Township Trustee Jason Critchlow has officially announced his candidacy for mayor of South Bend. He is the first person to enter the race for the 2027 municipal elections.

Why it matters

Critchlow's early entry establishes the first formal platform in the upcoming contest for city leadership. The mayoral, common council, and clerk positions are all scheduled for reelection in November 2027.

The municipal election cycle for South Bend will culminate in November 2027. This cycle includes the mayoral position, common council seats, and the city clerk role.

The players

Jason Critchlow

He is the current Portage Township Trustee and the first declared candidate for the 2027 South Bend mayoral race.

The details

Critchlow currently serves as the Portage Township Trustee and marks the beginning of the local election season with his public announcement. His entry initiates the formal campaign period for the city's leadership roles.

October 5, 2026: Jason Critchlow announced his mayoral candidacy.
November 2027: South Bend mayoral and municipal elections occur.

Political Context

Critchlow's announcement precedes the expected formation of opposition campaigns and the rise of challengers from the city's common council. Political analysts typically monitor these early entry points to gauge the strength of the incumbent's position and the appetite for change among local voters.

Residents should prepare for an extended campaign season as this official announcement signals the start of the 2027 election cycle. Voters will see increased political outreach and community engagement efforts from candidates in the coming months.

The takeaway

Early campaign launches allow candidates to organize their fundraising efforts and build name recognition well before election day. Local voters can now begin comparing platforms as the first name enters the 2027 mayoral race.