Political campaigns kick off on Dyngus Day

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- For politicians in Michiana, Dyngus Day signifies the start of their campaigns for office. Some are looking to keep their seat while others are looking for their first chair.

U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly held a meet and greet with his supporters at the West Side Democratic and Civil Club Monday while Congresswoman Jackie Walorski did the same on Main Street.

Other local leaders like South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg was in attendance as well as other local candidates like Republican Brian Pawlowski who is running for St. Joseph County Council.

“Dyngus Day is a tradition. We’ve been bringing people out at 5:30 a.m. or earlier sometimes to boil sausage -- anything that they can do that tells you that they want to be out here, they want to engage, they want to meet their candidates running for office. So, you want to be here to get to know those people. Bottom line,” said Pawlowski.

“I’m a pretty bipartisan guy and I like to get to solutions and I think people have been receptive to that, people are eager to hear what you think can be done to solve the challenges they are facing in those areas,” he continued.

The events – complete with Polish sausage, pancakes, and fruit spreads for all to enjoy.

“The mood is fantastic. Everyone is having a great time, looking forward to pancakes and sausage. I’ll be cooking pancakes,” said Linda Rogers (R), Indiana Senate Candidate.

Setting political views aside, the politicians can all agree on their favorite Polish food.

To find out where you can celebrate Dyngus Day, click here.