FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Voters in Allen County will participate in the May 5, 2026 Primary Election, selecting nominees for a wide range of county, township, and municipal offices. The ballot reflects the full structure of local government, from countywide leadership to township-level administration.
This guide includes every listed candidate, along with expanded, neutral background summaries to help voters better understand each role and the individuals seeking office.
Allen County Assessor
- Stacey O’Day (Republican)
O’Day is the sole candidate for county assessor. Individuals in this role typically have experience in property assessment, real estate, or public administration. The assessor’s office determines property values used for taxation and works with state guidelines to ensure uniformity and accuracy across the county.
Allen County Auditor
- Jackie Scheuman (Republican)
Scheuman is running unopposed for county auditor. The position serves as the county’s chief financial recordkeeper, overseeing payroll, budgets, tax distribution, and financial compliance. Candidates for this office often bring administrative or financial management experience.
Allen County Board of Commissioners – District 2
- Kate Conner (Democratic)
Conner is the Democratic candidate in this race. County commissioners function as the executive branch of county government, responsible for infrastructure, contracts, and administration. Candidates often come from business, civic leadership, or public service backgrounds. - Ozzie Mitson (Republican)
Mitson is the Republican candidate seeking to represent District 2. Commissioners play a central role in long-term planning, economic development, and oversight of county departments.
Allen County Board of Commissioners – District 3
- Jorge Fernandez (Democratic)
Fernandez is the Democratic candidate. Individuals running for commissioner typically focus on county growth, fiscal management, and public services. - Ewelina Connolly (Republican)
Connolly is one of two Republican candidates competing in the primary. Candidates for this role often highlight community involvement and administrative experience. - Paul Moss (Republican)
Moss is also seeking the Republican nomination. The three-way race will determine which candidate advances to the general election.
Allen County Prosecuting Attorney
- Tesa Helge (Republican)
Helge is running unopposed. Prosecutors must be licensed attorneys and are responsible for handling criminal cases, advising law enforcement, and representing the state in court. The role requires legal expertise and courtroom experience.
Allen County Recorder
- Cheyenne Stoppenhagen (Democratic)
Stoppenhagen is the Democratic candidate. The recorder maintains official public documents such as property records, mortgages, and liens. - Robert Armstrong (Republican)
Armstrong is one of two Republican candidates in the primary. Candidates for recorder often emphasize accuracy, record management, and public accessibility. - Nicole Keesling (Republican)
Keesling is also competing for the Republican nomination, making this one of the county’s contested administrative races.
Allen County Sheriff
- Troy Hershberger (Republican)
Hershberger is the sole candidate for sheriff. The position oversees county law enforcement operations, jail management, and coordination with other agencies. Candidates typically have extensive experience in policing or public safety.
Township Government Races
Township officials manage localized services such as emergency assistance, fire funding, and rural administration. These roles often have direct, day-to-day impacts on residents.
Aboite Township
Township Trustee
- Bob Behr (Democratic)
Behr is seeking to oversee township operations, including assistance programs and financial management. - Kim Mills (Republican)
Mills is the Republican candidate. Trustees typically manage budgets, coordinate services, and respond to local needs.
Township Board (Vote for 3)
Democratic Candidates
- Emily Jayne Duff – Community-focused candidate involved in local civic efforts
- Lora J. Friedrich – Candidate with interest in township oversight and budgeting
- Paula Anne Neuman – Focused on local governance and resident services
Republican Candidates
- Luke Fries – Emphasizes fiscal oversight and township operations
- Jamee D. Lock – Candidate interested in community-level decision-making
- Joshua David Nix – Focused on township planning and accountability
Adams Township
Township Trustee
- Denita Washington (D) – Candidate focused on township assistance and administration
- Ivan Almodovar (R) – Republican candidate emphasizing local service delivery
Township Board (Vote for 3)
Democratic Candidates
- Timothy C. Cash
- Maygan Leco
- Dawn Moore
- Paulette Nellems
Republican Candidate
- Chad Bauer
Board members assist in budget approval and oversight of township operations.
Cedar Creek Township
Township Trustee
- Scott Connally (R)
- Jonathon J. Yoder (R)
Township Board (Vote for 3)
- Robert J. Pfister (D)
- Keith Amstutz (R)
- James Berger (R)
- Dawn M. Fair (R)
- Kathy Fisher (R)
- Steven Jones (R)
- Taylor Pepple (R)
Eel River Township
Township Board
- Doyle Rhodes (R)
Jackson Township
Township Trustee
- Ben Moore (R)
Township Board
- Dennis J. Castleman (R)
- Gloria E. Gerig (R)
- Carrie Ulmer (R)
Jefferson Township
Township Trustee
- Lynn E. Rorick (R)
Township Board
- Angela M. Daniel (R)
- Brent R. Hoffman (R)
Lafayette Township
Township Trustee
- Mark Madden (R)
Township Board
- Joe Hyndman (D)
- Jeffrey Ford (R)
- Jenna Madden (R)
Lake Township
Township Trustee
- Jerika Clawson (R)
Township Board
- John R. Banet (R)
- Nathan A. Kuehnert (R)
- Charlie Seifert (R)
Grabill Town Council
- Claude E. Schrock (R)
Council members adopt ordinances, approve budgets, and guide town policy.
Huntertown
Clerk-Treasurer
- Ryan Schwab (R)
Oversees financial operations, budgeting, and recordkeeping for the town.
Town Council (Vote for 5)
Democratic Candidates
- Kyle Quandt
- Andrew Roberts
Republican Candidates
- Michael J. Aker
- Lee Bradley
- Therese M. Brown
- Bob Buescher
- Gary W. Grant
- Brittany Kindler
- Tina D. McDonald
- Tony Ramey
- Brandon Seifert
- Chad Wright
Additional Offices on the Ballot
Allen County voters will also see races for:
- U.S. Representative (District 3)
- Indiana State Senate (Districts 14, 15, 19)
- Indiana House (Districts 80–85)
- County Council districts
- Circuit Court Clerk
- Additional town offices in communities such as Leo-Cedarville and Zanesville
- Party convention delegates and precinct committeemen
Final Notes for Voters
The 2026 Allen County primary ballot is extensive, reflecting every layer of government. While high-profile races often draw attention, township and local offices play a significant role in everyday services and community operations.
Voters are encouraged to:
- Review all races on their ballot
- Understand the responsibilities of each office
- Plan ahead for Election Day
This election will help shape leadership across Allen County—from federal representation to neighborhood-level governance—making it one of the most comprehensive ballots voters will encounter.
