MOUNT VERNON — According to the Knox County Board of Elections, the March primary ballot will most likely feature an abundance of Republican party candidates, but a dearth of Democratic party candidates. The filing deadline is 4 p.m. today, and the petitions have to be certified [for valid signatures] by Dec. 19.
The following individuals have already filed petitions to be included on the Republican ballot: Jennifer Ogle, for coroner; John Lybarger, county recorder; Jim Henry, county engineer; and Mary Jo Hawkins, clerk of courts.
Republican candidates for sheriff include Roger Brown and David Shaffer.
Republicans vying for a seat on the Knox County Board of Commissioners include: Thom Collier, Shirley Fletcher and John Booth for Allen Stockberger’s seat; Teresa Bemiller, for her seat on the board.
State Rep. Margaret Ann Ruhl has submitted a petition for state representative for the 68th district for the Republican party, as did Republicans Jason Rogers and Jeff Furr. Democrat Bradley Schaaf is seeking the state representative seat.
The position of Knox County Treasurer is being sought by Republicans Renee McDaniel and Shelley Coon.
Some individuals have picked up petitions for certain seats, but haven’t yet filed them with the Board of Elections. Among those are Tim Smith and Eugene Phillips, Republicans who have expressed an interest in a commissioner seat. John Thatcher and Rob Broeren both want to be the Republican candidate for Knox County Prosecutor.
Tom Bumpus took out a petition for county commissioner but told the News he will not be filing today. Fred Dailey had taken out petitions for state representative and the senate but told the News this morning he will not be running for either seat but wanted to keep other candidates “on their toes.”
It is possible there will be additional candidates, as individuals can print petitions off-line instead of picking them up at the board of elections office.
Candidates have until Dec. 30 to submit to the News a photo and press release announcing their candidacy.
