Local GOP responds to letter against collaboration

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- On Wednesday, the members of the St. Joseph County GOP held a press conference to respond to a state party letter, which County GOP Chair Jackie Horvath has deemed unfair and hypocritical.

Officials say the letter incorrectly implied the Chair had authority over ballot access, which is really decided by the county election board.

Horvath emphasized fairness, transparency, and accountability, and said she remains focused on supporting candidates and preparing for the 2026 election.

Horvath stated, "Our county party is in the strongest position it has ever been. We hold 13 out of 23 seats and county elected positions. In the last election, we won seven out of eight races, and our fundraising is at an all-time high, that progress will continue, and nothing will distract us from that mission. Recently, the state party issued a letter in response to a complaint by former party members. The letter described the allegations as frivolous, yet still impose a reprimand that contradiction is unfair, hypocritical, and undermines the credibility of the decision itself. The letter also implied that I as County Chairman have the power to approve or deny someone's ability to run for office. That is simply not true under state law, with the exception of the two primary rule, no County Chairman has authority over ballot access and to suggest otherwise misleads both our members and the public."