BEDFORD — The race for the 2026 Primary Election is officially underway in Lawrence County as the first wave of candidates formalizes their bids for office. With the filing period having opened on January 7, several local and state incumbents, along with new challengers, have already submitted their paperwork to the Lawrence County Clerk’s office.
Key Early Filings
As of January 13, 2026, the following candidates have officially filed for the May 5 primary:
State & Judicial Races:
- Chris D. May (Republican): Seeking reelection for State Representative, District 065.
- Nathan G. Nikirk (Republican): Filed for Judge of the Lawrence Circuit Court, 81st Judicial Circuit.
- Robert (Bob) Cline (Republican): Filed for Judge of the Lawrence Superior Court 2.
- Samuel C. Arp, II (Republican): Seeking reelection as Prosecuting Attorney.
County Council:
- Amy Redman (Republican): District 1.
- Phil Inman (Republican): District 2.
- Brian Skillman (Republican): District 2.
- Jeffrey Lytton (Republican): District 3.
- David Holmes (Republican): District 3.
- Brian Prince (Republican): District 4.
Commissioners:
- Jason Branham (Republican): District 1.
- Rick Butterfield (Republican): District 1.
U.S. House (9th District):
Brad A. Meyer (Democrat) and Keil L. Roark (Democrat) have both filed to challenge for the Ninth District congressional seat.
Important Election Deadlines
The candidate list is expected to grow significantly over the coming weeks. Local residents and potential candidates should keep the following dates in mind:
- Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 (Noon): Final deadline for major party candidates to file a declaration of candidacy.
- Monday, April 6, 2026: Deadline for citizens to register to vote in the primary.
- Tuesday, April 7, 2026: Early in-person voting begins at the circuit court clerk’s office.
- Tuesday, May 5, 2026: Primary Election Day. Polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
State Convention Delegates
In addition to public offices, several individuals have filed to serve as Republican State Convention Delegates, including Chase Cummings and Alexandra Edwards (District 1), Robert Hall and Henry Shetler (District 2), and Andrew J. Rusch and Nathan Emmett Watson (District 3).
Residents are encouraged to verify their voter registration status at indianavoters.com to ensure they are prepared for the upcoming election cycle.
