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 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
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