Local officials to attend public forum on upcoming elections Saturday

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Indiana University South Bend will be holding a public forum this weekend that encourages voters to learn about the down-ballot administrative races that are often overshadowed by bigger, national elections.

“Fewer voters cast votes in these races due to confusion about what the offices do, what qualifications officeholders need, and how these offices affect people’s everyday lives. There is a strong sentiment among some voters that such non-policymaking administrative positions should not be on the ballot at all,” said IUSB Political Science Professor Elizabeth Bennion.

Organizers say current office holders and 2024 primary candidates will be in attendance to explain the functions of these down-ballot offices, what skills are required to do these jobs well, and why each position is necessary for the county – and residents’ lives -- to run smoothly.

The forum is open to the public and will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on March 23 at Civil Rights Heritage Center (1040 W. Washington St., South Bend).

Did you ever wonder why we elect people to positions like treasurer, recorder, assessor, county clerk, and coroner? What do these offices do? WHY are these folks elected? How does they affect your property taxes and voting experience? Join present officeholders and current 2024 candidates for these typically low-profile political positions for a robust discussion of the purpose of these offices, priorities of the people seeking to hold them, and how these people and offices can benefit you," organizers said.

Speakers confirmed for the forum include incumbent recorder (and treasurer candidate) Mary Beth Wisniewski, recorder candidates Sharon Banicki (D), Candace Brown (R), and Carolyn Topolski (D), incumbent coroner Patricia Jordan (R), former coroner and current candidate Mike McGann (D), incumbent treasurer Tim Swager, chief deputy assessor, Alta Neri, and county clerk Amy Rolfes

Click here to learn more and RSVP.