Meet your 2026 Democratic candidates!
St. Joseph County Democrats are well-positioned to win local elections up and down the ballot in 2026. Building upon our strong countywide roster of current elected Democrats, we are recruiting candidates who will champion working-class values and fight for policies that make life more affordable for our families.
But first we must nominate our candidates!
The deadline for Democratic candidates to file for the Indiana 2026 primary election is Friday, February 6, 2026, 12:00pm. We will update this page as more Democrats announce in 2026!
Primary Day is Tuesday, May 5, 2026!
Candidates for County Council:
Math teacher Ranjan Rohatgi is challenging MAGA extremist Councilwoman Amy Drake in District B.
“We need a council that prioritizes our well-being and helps ensure the safety of all of us who live in the County, not one that is mired in the political polarization that’s taken over national politics.” — Ranjan Rohatgi
Ranjan Rohatgi (District B)
Jan Cervelli (District C)
Education leader Jan Cervelli is challenging incumbent County Council President Dan Schaetzle (R—“not in good standing”).
“Our county is facing major challenges of affordability, access to health care, and public safety, among others and is in need of purposeful leadership to guide it into a positive future.” — Jan Cervelli
Statewide Democratic candidates for Secretary of State:
Our nominee for Secretary of State will be decided at the Indiana Democratic Party's 2026 State Convention, Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the Indiana Marriott Downtown and the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. We have two fantastic candidates vying for the nomination — Beau Bayh and Blythe Potter:
Jamee Decio for Congress
Elkhart native Jamee Decio is seeking the Democratic Party’s nomination to challenge MAGA Republican Rep. Rudy Yakym in the 2nd Congressional District.
Gabrianna Gratzol for State Senate
Working-class champion Gabrianna Gratzol is demanding a living wage of $15 per hour and prioritizing strong labor unions and affordable healthcare in her challenge against MAGA incumbent State Sen. Linda Rogers in the 11th District.