The race for local leadership in Fayette County has officially taken shape as the filing deadline for the May 5, 2026, Primary Election has passed. While the full list of candidates covers everything from township boards to federal seats, the focus for many local voters is on a handful of high-stakes primary challenges between familiar faces and sitting incumbents.
The Race for County Recorder
One of the most notable matchups this spring is for the County Recorder’s office. Current incumbent Lisa Mays Witt is facing a challenge from Jane Downard, who currently serves as the Fayette County Auditor. This contest puts two sitting county officeholders in a direct race for a single seat on the Republican ticket, forcing voters to choose between two established leaders in the courthouse.
County Council District 2: Collins vs. Stewart
In District 2, Republican voters will see a unique matchup between two current officeholders. Robert “Bob” Stewart, the incumbent for County Council District 2, is being challenged by Jabin Jay Collins, who currently serves as a member of the Connersville City Council.
This race brings together a sitting county official and a sitting city official vying for the same seat. Given the ongoing discussions surrounding fiscal policy and county-wide spending, this head-to-head contest between Stewart and Collins is expected to be a significant focal point for District 2 residents this May.
Additional Contested Primary Races
The courthouse isn’t the only place seeing competition. Several other key roles feature contested Republican primaries that will decide who moves forward to the general election:
Circuit Court Clerk: A Republican contest between Ashley Chambers and current Clerk Dawn M. Hughes.
County Council District 3: A Republican matchup featuring Timothy Barricklow and Jerry Robert May.
County Council District 4: Republican candidates Gary R. Keener, Jr. and Jim Wulff are vying for the seat.
Connersville Township Trustee: On the Republican side, Terena Gibson Murray and Linda Wulff are facing off for the trustee position.
Posey Township Trustee: Republican candidates Anna Dungan and Jaime Ripberger are both seeking the nomination.
Looking Ahead
With several incumbents and established local leaders going head-to-head, this primary will serve as a major decision point for Fayette County voters. Over the coming weeks, Whitewater Valley Voice will reach out to these candidates to provide more in-depth coverage of their platforms and their visions for the future of our community.
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