Endorsements
Elkhart Co. Sheriff Jeff Siegel endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
“I am Jeff Siegel, Elkhart County Sheriff. I have proudly served as your Sheriff since 2019, with a total of 34 years in law enforcement. During my time at the Sheriff’s Office, I have served in many roles. From my many years as a Deputy, Commander, and Sheriff, I have certainly gained vast experiences. From these experiences, I feel that I can unequivocally identify the skills, traits, and characteristics of whom should be selected to serve you as the next Sheriff of Elkhart County.
I could not be prouder to endorse Michael Culp to serve as the next Sheriff of Elkhart County. I first got to know Mike when he was an intern at the Sheriff’s Office in 2002. From that time on, I have been able to watch him grow from when he started as a patrol officer to the position he currently holds as part of the administration. He too has served in many roles, but along the way, he has gained skills that truly set him apart from other candidates. The Sheriff’s Office is a very complex organization and is so much more than law enforcement. Mike is responsible for and well-versed in the following areas: personnel matters, budgeting, service of civil process, public information, records retention, training both law enforcement and corrections, and court security. All of these responsibilities are critical in understanding how to effectively lead and maintain safety in our county.
What truly sets Mike apart is his well-balanced demeanor, his focus set on his family, (who are amazing people by the way) and the county he serves. He demonstrates on a daily basis his ability to be a humble, professional, and calm officer who upholds high standards that do Elkhart County and the Office of the Sheriff proud.
Mike is not afraid of hard work or tackling critical issues that will arise. Mike is a respectful servant leader, possesses the right skillset and experience, and I give him my full support and confidence to serve you as the next Elkhart County Sheriff.
Please join me in voting for and electing Mike Culp as Sheriff!”
– Sheriff Jeff A. Siegel, Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office
Former Sheriff Tom Snider endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
“Greetings to Elkhart County Voters,
I served as your Sheriff from 1995 until 2002. I am pleased to endorse Mike Culp in his run for Elkhart County Sheriff. I have known Mike and his family for years. His grandfather, John Huitema, was a Sheriff’s Reserve Deputy with whom I responded to many calls and whom I remember fondly. Mike began his career as an intern with the Sheriff’s Department while I was finishing up my time in office. Since then, he has risen through the ranks and has been a division Captain for over 14 years, commanding both the Patrol and Administrative Services divisions.
Mike is a community man, a family man, and is always professional. He handles himself well and will serve you with courage as your next elected Sheriff. He understands the importance of the elected Sheriff in both our cities and our rural areas. I encourage you to join me in voting for him in the upcoming May 2026 Republican primary.”
– Sheriff Tom Snider, Retired
County Commissioner Brad Rogers Endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
I am writing to wholeheartedly endorse Captain Mike Culp for the position of Sheriff in the May, 2026, Primary election. As a retired Sheriff with 35+ years of experience in law enforcement, I have had the privilege of witnessing many individuals rise through the ranks. Few have impressed me as much as Mike Culp.
During his tenure with the Sheriff’s Office, Mike has demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to the principles of justice and community service. I had the honor of mentoring him as he moved through various ranks under my leadership. Mike witnessed the many stands I took on constitutional principles, including protecting citizens from Federal or State government overreach and standing strong on the Second Amendment. Mike will not just “go along” with an unconstitutional court decision or executive order; he will interpose between government and the citizen to protect rights, as a Sheriff should. I can confidently say that he embodies the values we hold dear in law enforcement.
One of the most commendable aspects of Mike’s character is his unwavering commitment to upholding the United States and Indiana Constitutions. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of constitutional rights and has always prioritized them in every decision he made. This is especially crucial in today’s climate, where law enforcement must balance public safety with individual liberties. His ability to navigate these complexities, while maintaining integrity, is a testament to his character and professionalism.
Moreover, Mike’s approach to community policing sets him apart from other candidates. He understands that effective law enforcement goes beyond simply enforcing laws; it involves building trust and fostering relationships within the community. His efforts to engage with residents, listen to their concerns, and work collaboratively to address issues have made a significant impact on our community. He believes that law enforcement should be a partner in ensuring public safety rather than an adversary.
In addition to his strong moral compass, Mike possesses an impressive skill set that makes him an excellent candidate for Sheriff. His extensive experience in various roles within the department has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of law enforcement operations and the Sheriff’s office. He is adept at crisis management, strategic planning, and team leadership—qualities essential for a successful Sheriff.
Furthermore, Mike’s ability to remain calm under pressure and make sound decisions in high-stress situations is remarkable. I have witnessed him handle challenging scenarios with poise and professionalism, always prioritizing the safety of both officers and community members alike. His calm demeanor inspires confidence among his peers and fosters a positive work environment.
As someone who has devoted my life to serving the Elkhart County community as a Deputy Sheriff, then your elected Sheriff, and now as your County Commissioner, I understand the importance of electing a leader who is not only qualified, but also possesses the right values and vision for the future. I firmly believe that Mike Culp is that leader. His impeccable character, dedication to constitutional principles, and commitment to community engagement make him the ideal candidate for this critical position.
In conclusion, I urge you to support and vote for Mike Culp for Sheriff. He is not only an outstanding law enforcement officer but also a person of integrity who will lead our Sheriff’s Office with honor and respect. Together, let us ensure that our community continues to thrive under capable leadership.
Sincerely,
– Bradley D. Rogers
Elkhart County Sheriff (2011-2018, Retired)
Elkhart County Commissioner, District 2
Former Commissioner Frank Lucchese Endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
– Frank Lucchese
Businessman & Former Elkhart County Commissioner, District 1
Elkhart, Indiana
City Councilman Don Riegsecker Endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
To whom it may concern,
As a City Councilman here in Goshen, I have always strived to ensure that the work I do on the council is focused on doing what’s best for the district I represent and the city as a whole. Mike Culp will bring that same focus to the office of Elkhart County Sheriff.
Mike brings over 15 years of division command experience to the table in both patrol and administrative services. This is important, as the sheriff’s office is one of the largest parts of the overall county government budget, and his experience with wage studies, budgeting, and administration is a direct qualification for this role.
In my interactions with Captain Culp, he has consistently demonstrated himself to be an experienced and well-reasoned professional. He brings the kind of servant leadership we need in our local government. He has earned my support and vote.
I encourage you to vote for Mike Culp for Sheriff in this Republican primary election.
– Don Riegsecker, Goshen City Council, District 1
Goshen, Indiana
County Councilman Doug Graham Endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
“The past 7 years have given me the opportunity to proudly serve the citizens of Elkhart County as the Councilmember from District 1. During this time, I have observed other elected officials and observed their styles and habits of representing our county residents.
There are a select few selected positions that are term limited, meaning that the maximum time they can serve is two terms of 4 years each. When this occurs, the citizens select a new representative to fill these vital roles.One such position is that of the Sheriff of Elkhart County which is up for election next year. We will have the opportunity to choose who will fill this role as the Chief Law Enforcement Officer of Elkhart County.This vital position requires an individual with a strong moral foundation and obviously a commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for our community. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that this is an administrative position best served by someone with a deep understanding of the nuances and budgetary requirements needed to fill this critical office.Also, it is important to note that Sheriffs past and present support Mike in his campaign. Those that have been in this role best understand the necessary qualifications needed in this position.
Without reservation I fully support Mike Culp in his campaign to serve as our next Sheriff. Mike is a humble man refusing to self-promote and has the necessary experience to lead this important department. His proven commitment to his faith and family along with a collaborative core are the qualities we need to look for when choosing our next Sheriff.
I ask all citizens to vote for Mike Culp for Sheriff in the primary election in May 2026 and am fully committed to supporting him as he humbly asks for your support.”
– Douglas Graham
Elkhart County Councilmember, District 1
County Commissioner Suzie Weirick endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
As the senior Elkhart County Commissioner, I have had the pleasure of collaborating with all of our county departments and offices to deliver quality service, transparency, and fiscal responsibility to all county residents.
Nowhere is this more important than in our Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office. From the thousand-bed jail to the vital law enforcement services, stability must be combined with forward thinking to make sure our county receives the industry-leading, accredited law enforcement service we have come to expect from our men and women in uniform. As the current president of the Indiana County Commissioners Association, I have seen the importance of this across our state, especially as all of our local governments deal with the consequences of state funding changes after SEA 1.
I believe that Captain Mike Culp is the right choice to lead this agency as our next Sheriff.
Mike is a professional who will bring needed stability to the office’s decision-making. He is an intelligent and easy-to-work-with individual who prioritizes the needs of his team and the public over his own. His command-level service under multiple administrations proves his ability to work toward the goal we all share, which is better public safety and service for all.
He is the candidate most prepared to take on the direct operations and challenges of the Sheriff’s Office.
I endorse Mike in his run for Elkhart County Sheriff, and I hope that you will join me in voting for him in the upcoming May 5th Republican Primary Election.”
– Suzie Weirick, Elkhart County Commissioner, District 3
Board Vice-President
County Commissioner Bob Barnes endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
County Treasurer Cindy Chadwell endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
Fmr. Nappanee Mayor Larry Thompson endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
– Larry Thompson, Former Mayor, City of Nappanee, Indiana
Nappanee, Indiana
County Councilman Darryl Riegsecker endorses Mike Culp for Sheriff
– Darryl Riegsecker, Elkhart County Council – District 3
Goshen, Indiana
ENDORSED BY YOUR SHERIFF
“I encourage you to join me in voting Mike Culp for Sheriff in the 2026 Republican Primary Election.”
– Sheriff Jeff A. Siegel