Mayor Joe Yochum Expresses Disappointment Over Procedural Error That Will Keep Him Off November Ballot
August 11, 2026
VINCENNES, Ind. — Joe Yochum, Mayor of Vincennes and declared Democratic candidate for Indiana State Senate District 39, was informed today that a procedural error made by the Indiana Democratic Party will prevent him from appearing on the November 2026 ballot.
Yochum said he is deeply disappointed by the circumstances and by the impact the error will have on voters across the district.
Yochum said one of the greatest disappointments is that he will not have the opportunity to act on the issues that voters care about most.
“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.”
Joe Yochum pictured at the Ballot Vacancy Nominating Caucus on July 23. The CAN-28 form was required to be filed three days later.
Photo courtesy of Tom Bartholomew.
Yochum also expressed concern about the choice now facing voters in the district.
“Unfortunately, those voters will now have no choice on who represents them in the Indiana State Senate for the next four years,” Yochum said. “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 encouraged residents throughout the district to remain engaged in the political process and to make their voices heard.
“I am deeply grateful to my supporters, and I hope voters will continue to share their concerns with me and participate in the election process this fall. I’ve met great candidates in these communities who would make outstanding office holders,” Yochum said. “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. 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.”
Questions regarding the procedural error should be directed to the Indiana Democratic Party at 317-231-7100.
Background: The CAN-28 form is required to be filed no later than 12:00 noon three days following a caucus with the Election Division in Indianapolis. The form should have included the candidate’s registration information as well as a signature from the chair of the caucus certifying the vacancy had been filled.