Reporting Without Fear or Favor.
During Amy Drake’s first term on the St. Joseph County Council (2023-2025), over 25% of homeowners faced tax increases of at least 50%, while only 2.1% saw significant reductions. Notably, several council members, including Drake, experienced tax declines amidst widespread hikes, raising questions about the reasons for these disparities.
Amy Drake, a candidate running for re-election on a “Families First” platform, is scrutinized for her past association with former Speaker Dennis Hastert, who was later convicted of crimes related to sexual abuse. The article argues that judgment and discernment in leadership choices are critical, questioning Drake’s alignment with Hastert’s controversial legacy.
The “Drake and O’Brien PAC” represents a straightforward political partnership between Amy Drake and Jamie O’Brien, eschewing ideological branding for direct identification. Despite limited finances, the PAC signifies a significant local political alliance. This transparency contrasts typical complex campaign structures, highlighting how political identities are shaped and presented in the election landscape.
By Akachi OkerekeThe Michiana PostJanuary 9th, 2026 Elected Republican officials in St. Joseph County enforced party discipline against one county council member in 2025 for declining to endorse a Republican candidate, then supported the transfer of County Council leadership to Democrats in 2024 and 2026 without similar sanctions, according to party records, council votes, and…
“Swatting” is not a synonym for inconvenience or fear. It describes a specific criminal act in which a false report of imminent violence is used to trigger an armed police response, often involving tactical units. The distinction matters, especially when the accusation carries political and legal consequences. That distinction is blurred in recent claims by…
SOUTH BEND, Ind. — For months, opponents of a proposed data center in New Carlisle have argued that public sentiment in St. Joseph County is overwhelmingly against the project. Opponents have repeated a message claiming “no one wants this” in public hearings, letters to officials, and online discussion forums. But what do the numbers actually…
Opinion by Akachi OkerekeThe Michiana PostDecember 2, 2025 The Party That Claims to Defend Property Rights Didn’t Defend Them For decades, Republicans have labeled themselves as defenders of property rights and individual liberty. They often argue that the government should not interfere with the decisions of private landowners. On October 28, they abandoned that principle.…