VINCENNES — Vincennes Mayor Joe Yochum, the declared Democratic candidate for Indiana State Senate District 39, announced that a procedural error by the Indiana Democratic Party will keep him off the ballot in the upcoming November election.
The omission leaves district voters without a Democratic option on the ballot this fall, effectively rendering the seat uncontested.
The Filing Error
The issue stems from a missed administrative deadline following the caucus that selected Yochum as the party’s candidate.
Under Indiana election rules, a candidate caucus certification (Form CAN-28) must be submitted to the Indiana Election Division in Indianapolis no later than 12:00 noon, three days following the caucus. The form requires candidate registration information along with the caucus chair’s signature certifying that the vacancy has been filled. Because the form was not properly submitted within the mandatory window, Yochum’s candidate status could not be finalized.
Questions regarding the filing error are being directed to the Indiana Democratic Party at 317-231-7100.
Yochum Reacts to Ballot Exclusion
Yochum expressed deep disappointment over the error, emphasizing the loss of a meaningful choice for voters across the district.
“My heart is in southwest Indiana, the communities and people I’ve had the opportunity to get to know throughout this district,” Yochum said. “I’ve spent the last several weeks traveling, listening, connecting with residents and building friendships. I’ve been inspired by the passion and excitement in these conversations, and I was looking forward to carrying that with me to the Statehouse.”
Yochum raised concerns over the lack of political competition resulting from his removal from the ticket:
“Unfortunately, those voters will now have no choice on who represents them in the Indiana State Senate for the next four years,” Yochum added. “I firmly believe that a solid one-party system is not healthy — and I don’t care which party we’re talking about. When residents no longer have meaningful choices, that should concern us all.”
Despite the setback, Yochum urged residents throughout the district to stay engaged in the political process and participate in local elections this fall.
About Mayor Joe Yochum
A lifelong Knox County resident, Yochum has dedicated his career to public service in southwest Indiana.
- Fire Service: Served 32 years as a firefighter, including four years as Fire Chief for the City of Vincennes.
- Mayoral Tenure: First elected Mayor of Vincennes in 2011, Yochum is currently serving his fourth term.
- Continued Service: Yochum confirmed he will continue to serve out his term as mayor and advocate for local government priorities.
“For the last 15 years, I’ve served as a mayor and witnessed firsthand the impact decisions made at the Statehouse can have on our cities, towns, families and local economies,” Yochum said. “The reality we are facing is that things are getting worse for people that I care deeply about. I will continue to fight for good government in my role as Vincennes Mayor and hope to see future change for southwest Indiana.”
