Jason Critchlow is a lifelong South Bend resident, Washington High School graduate, husband, father, and community leader who believes local government should work for the people it serves.
Raised in a working and middle-class family, Jason is the son of a South Bend police officer and a healthcare worker. He attended South Bend public schools and knows firsthand the challenges many families face. When his first attempt at college didn’t go as planned, Jason returned home, worked full-time, attended classes at night, completed his undergraduate degree, and later earned a master’s degree alongside his wife, Olivia. Their son was born during their final semester of graduate school. They now have two children together.
Professionally, Jason spent nearly two decades in the private sector managing complex projects in healthcare and oncology clinical research. That experience taught him how to solve problems, build teams, manage budgets, and deliver results.
Jason’s commitment to public service grew out of volunteering and community involvement. He currently serves as Portage Township Trustee, an executive leadership position serving South Bend residents.
As Trustee, Jason has expanded assistance programs for working families, seniors, children, and residents facing hardship. Under his leadership, the township expanded food, rent, utility, emergency housing, and clothing assistance; established programs for infants, new mothers, and students; created South Bend’s permanent senior center; expanded the community food pantry; strengthened renter protections and property inspections; built partnerships around fire and EMS services; and became known for showing up during apartment fires, severe weather events, and other community emergencies.
Jason believes leadership starts with showing up, listening, and solving problems. His vision for South Bend is simple: growth should create opportunity, strengthen neighborhoods, and improve quality of life for the people who already call this city home. He believes progress should reach every neighborhood, and that residents deserve a city government that is responsive, transparent, accountable, and focused on the everyday challenges families face.