Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam will seek a second term in office.
She announced her 2027 reelection bid Oct. 29 in a video posted on social media.
“There’s more I want to accomplish, more problems to solve and more opportunities ahead for Carmel,” Finkam said in the video. “I love this city and the incredible people who call it home. Serving as your mayor is an honor I never take for granted.”
In 2023, Finkam, a Republican, defeated Democratic Carmel City Councilor Miles Nelson to become mayor, succeeding seven-term Republican Mayor Jim Brainard. Earlier that year, she won a three-way primary race against Carmel City Councilor Kevin “Woody” Rider and former Hamilton County Councilor Fred Glynn.
Finkam represented the Northeast District on the Carmel City Council from 2012 to 2023.
Previously a marketing professional, Finkam said in the video that serving as mayor is one of the most “toughest” and “most rewarding” jobs she’s ever had.
“Here’s what I’ve learned as mayor: This job isn’t about having all of the answers,” Finkam said. “Listening, surrounding yourself with great people, being willing to make tough decisions and showing up every single day are what matters. That’s how I’ve appro...