Dear Friends & Supporters,

In March 2021, I announced my intention to run for St. Joseph County Commissioner in the 2022 elections because I love our community and believe we need to be working to build a safe, healthy, and strong future for the working families of St. Joseph County — the place I am proud to raise my family and call my home. Since then, I have spent many hours meeting with residents, working on issues, and developing comprehensive plans for our future.

Last fall, the St. Joseph County Commissioners passed a controversial new district map which intentionally placed me into a different district than the one in which I was running in the 2022 elections. In creating these maps, the Republican majority made no secret that their intentions were to stifle competition and remove the ability of voters to fairly choose their representation across our County.

Rightfully, the St. Joseph County Council has filed litigation challenging the legality and Constitutionality of these new maps but, as of this moment, the outcome of this process has yet to be determined. I believe we are at a point where we can no longer wait for the outcome of this court process as filing for office has begun and will soon end on February 4th.

Therefore, I regretfully announce that I must suspend my current campaign for County Commissioner in the 2022 elections. This decision could no longer be delayed as I have the responsibility to help ensure a strong candidate for County Commissioner has the opportunity to begin their campaign with a clear path and little distraction to aid their success.

With my full support and endorsement, Dr. Don Westerhausen has announced his intention to run for St. Joseph County Commissioner. Don has dedicated his life to serving people as a lifelong medical professional. He has raised his family in this community and understands the concerns, troubles, and needs of families first hand. Don will be the pragmatic problem solver we need to contrast the political extremism so prevalent today as he is someone who will govern with integrity and is unafraid to choose people over politics. Most importantly, Don understands the importance of building a safer, healthier, and stronger community for the future growth and security of St. Joseph County. Our families will be well-served by Dr. Don Westerhausen.

I have been overwhelmed with gratitude as my family has been honored to receive the kindness and support of so many community members. I will be proudly working to see Dr. Don Westerhausen elected as our next County Commissioner in 2022 and will continue doing my part to see to it that we have fair leaders who govern with the same practical integrity at every level of government. I will happily continue to seek ways to serve and be useful in the fight to create a better future for the working families of our community — the future every resident deserves.

I hope to have you alongside me as we work to ensure a strong future for all the residents of our community.

Thank you for your support!

Jason Critchlow