FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Voters across northeast Indiana will head to the polls on May 5, 2026, for a sweeping primary election that includes federal, state, county, and township races. Ballots in Adams County, Allen County, Huntington County, Noble County, and Whitley County reflect every level of government, from congressional representation to hyper-local township leadership.
Below is a fully comprehensive, county-by-county listing of all candidates filed for the May 5, 2026 primary election.
ADAMS COUNTY
United States Representative, Third District
Republican Candidates
- Jon M. Kenworthy (filed Feb. 6, 2026)
Kenworthy is a Republican candidate seeking to represent Indiana’s Third Congressional District. Candidates for this office typically come from backgrounds in business, law, agriculture, or public service. Kenworthy’s campaign centers on federal legislative representation. - Marlin A. Stutzman (filed Jan. 26, 2026)
Stutzman is a well-known figure in Indiana politics, having previously served in Congress representing the Third District. His background includes experience in both state and federal government, as well as business and agriculture.
Democratic Candidate
- Kelly Thompson (filed Jan. 7, 2026)
Thompson is the Democratic candidate in the race. Candidates for Congress often emphasize community engagement, policy development, and constituent services at the federal level.
State Senator, District 19
Republican Candidates
- Blake Fiechter (filed Jan. 28, 2026)
Fiechter is a business owner and community leader from northeastern Indiana. His background includes agricultural and local economic involvement. - Travis Holdman (filed Jan. 7, 2026)
Holdman is an incumbent state senator with multiple terms in office. He has experience in legislative policymaking at the state level.
Democratic Candidate
- Timothy C. Murphy (filed Jan. 7, 2026)
Murphy is the Democratic candidate seeking to represent District 19 in the Indiana Senate.
State Representative, District 79
- Matthew S. Lehman (Republican) – filed Jan. 7, 2026
Lehman is the incumbent state representative with prior legislative experience. - Ian G. Richardson (Democratic) – filed Feb. 4, 2026
Richardson is the Democratic challenger for the seat.
Judge, Adams Superior Court
- Sam Conrad (Republican) – filed Jan. 14, 2026
Judicial candidates typically have legal backgrounds and courtroom experience.
Prosecuting Attorney
- Julie-Marie Brown (Republican) – filed Feb. 3, 2026
Prosecutors oversee criminal cases and represent the state in legal proceedings.
Clerk of the Circuit Court
- Shelly M. Brite (Republican) – filed Jan. 7, 2026
The clerk manages court records, filings, and administrative court functions.
County Sheriff
- Eric Beer (Republican) – filed Jan. 9, 2026
Sheriffs are responsible for law enforcement, jail operations, and public safety.
County Surveyor
- Mike Werling (Republican) – filed Jan. 12, 2026
Surveyors oversee land boundaries and drainage issues.
County Assessor
- Mary Beery (Republican) – filed Jan. 9, 2026
The assessor evaluates property values for taxation purposes.
County Commissioner, District 2
- Steven R. Bailey (Republican) – filed Jan. 12, 2026
Commissioners manage county infrastructure and administrative functions.
County Council
- Fred Velez (R), District 1 – filed Jan. 9
- Leonard Corral, Jr. (R), District 2 – filed Jan. 7
- Cory Sprunger (R), District 3 – filed Jan. 13
- Robert E. (Bob) Rhoades (R), District 4 – filed Jan. 7
County council members are responsible for budgeting and financial oversight.
Township Trustees
Republican candidates:
- Jeremiah Lipscomb – French Township
- Kerry L. Steiner – Hartford Township
- David W. Masterson – Jefferson Township
- Kendall Donavan Dean Arnold – Kirkland Township
- Gerald M. (Jerry) Walker – Monroe Township
- Darrel O. Ehlerding – Preble Township
- Fred J. Kunkel – Root Township
- Megan Clouse – St. Marys Township
- Roberta Grote – Union Township
- Jeanene K. Neuenschwander – Wabash Township
- Corey Affolder – Washington Township
Democratic candidates:
- Robert W. Reef – Jefferson Township
- David A. (Dave) Smith II – Washington Township
Township trustees administer local assistance and manage township services.
Township Board Members
Dozens of candidates are running for township board positions across Adams County, including:
- Blue Creek Township: Melvin Burkhart, Kyle Roe, Jeffery Yoder
- French Township: JB Baumgartner, Doug Hill, Mike Lipscomb
- Hartford Township: Dawn Kreigh, Michael Liechty, Dee Teeple
- Jefferson Township: Dennis Caffee, Mark Lehmann, Mark Merkel
- Kirkland Township: Chrissy Arnold, David Bluhm, Rebeccah Liechty
- Monroe Township: Brice Amstutz, Trisha Moser, Ethan Sharp, Nancy Walker
- Preble Township: Micah Borne, Timothy Hoffman, Dennis Werling
- Root Township: Trevor Callahan, Ryan Miller, Jeffrey Sheets
- St. Marys Township: Amanda Heiser, Randy Johnson, Jim Jones
- Union Township: Bradley Girod, Terry Grubaugh, Jessica Roemer
- Wabash Township: John Amstutz, James Bradtmueller Jr., Steve Kuhn, Mark Neuenschwander
- Washington Township: Michele Barger, Gunner Butler, Susan Miller
These boards assist with township budgeting and oversight.
Town Council
- Agnes Schoch (Republican) – Geneva District 2
- Andrew J. Briggs (Democratic) – Geneva District 3
Convention Delegates
Both parties have multiple candidates for county convention delegate positions, including:
Republican Delegates:
Brice Amstutz, Kelly Amstutz, Shelly Brite, Leonard Corral Jr., Matt Dyer, Darrel Ehlerding, Michael Garza, Shawn Hamrick, Steve Justus, Gina Melcher, Judi Merkel, Mark Merkel, Trisha Moser, Keven Sipe, Charles Tooley, Jim Voglewede
Democratic Delegates:
Kaitlyn Barlage, Megan Dunlap, Erica Dyer, Jenny Bowers Shultz, David Smith II, Ashley Theurer
Precinct Committeemen (Democratic)
Candidates include:
Julia Reef, Kathi Drake, Jenny Bowers Shultz, Ashley Theurer, Molly Cochran, Norman Glass, Robert Reef, Debra Giessler, Laura Hakes, Jessica Rambo, Janet Smith
These roles focus on party organization at the precinct level.
The 2026 Adams County Primary ballot is extensive, covering federal representation down to local township governance. Many races are uncontested, while others—particularly at the federal and state level—feature multiple candidates.
Voters are encouraged to review the full ballot ahead of Election Day to better understand the offices and candidates appearing this year.
ALLEN COUNTY
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.
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
HUNTINGTON COUNTY
United States Representative, Third District
Republican Candidates
- Jon M. Kenworthy (filed Feb. 6, 2026)
Kenworthy is a Republican candidate seeking to represent Indiana’s Third Congressional District. Candidates for this office typically come from backgrounds in business, law, agriculture, or public service. Kenworthy’s campaign centers on federal legislative representation. - Marlin A. Stutzman (filed Jan. 26, 2026)
Stutzman is a well-known figure in Indiana politics, having previously served in Congress representing the Third District. His background includes experience in both state and federal government, as well as business and agriculture.
Democratic Candidate
- Kelly Thompson (filed Jan. 7, 2026)
Thompson is the Democratic candidate in the race. Candidates for Congress often emphasize community engagement, policy development, and constituent services at the federal level.
State Senator, District 19
Republican Candidates
- Blake Fiechter (filed Jan. 28, 2026)
Fiechter is a business owner and community leader from northeastern Indiana. His background includes agricultural and local economic involvement. - Travis Holdman (filed Jan. 7, 2026)
Holdman is an incumbent state senator with multiple terms in office. He has experience in legislative policymaking at the state level.
Democratic Candidate
- Timothy C. Murphy (filed Jan. 7, 2026)
Murphy is the Democratic candidate seeking to represent District 19 in the Indiana Senate.
State Representative, District 79
- Matthew S. Lehman (Republican) – filed Jan. 7, 2026
Lehman is the incumbent state representative with prior legislative experience. - Ian G. Richardson (Democratic) – filed Feb. 4, 2026
Richardson is the Democratic challenger for the seat.
Judge, Adams Superior Court
- Sam Conrad (Republican) – filed Jan. 14, 2026
Judicial candidates typically have legal backgrounds and courtroom experience.
Prosecuting Attorney
- Julie-Marie Brown (Republican) – filed Feb. 3, 2026
Prosecutors oversee criminal cases and represent the state in legal proceedings.
Clerk of the Circuit Court
- Shelly M. Brite (Republican) – filed Jan. 7, 2026
The clerk manages court records, filings, and administrative court functions.
County Sheriff
- Eric Beer (Republican) – filed Jan. 9, 2026
Sheriffs are responsible for law enforcement, jail operations, and public safety.
County Surveyor
- Mike Werling (Republican) – filed Jan. 12, 2026
Surveyors oversee land boundaries and drainage issues.
County Assessor
- Mary Beery (Republican) – filed Jan. 9, 2026
The assessor evaluates property values for taxation purposes.
County Commissioner, District 2
- Steven R. Bailey (Republican) – filed Jan. 12, 2026
Commissioners manage county infrastructure and administrative functions.
County Council
- Fred Velez (R), District 1 – filed Jan. 9
- Leonard Corral, Jr. (R), District 2 – filed Jan. 7
- Cory Sprunger (R), District 3 – filed Jan. 13
- Robert E. (Bob) Rhoades (R), District 4 – filed Jan. 7
County council members are responsible for budgeting and financial oversight.
Township Trustees
Republican candidates:
- Jeremiah Lipscomb – French Township
- Kerry L. Steiner – Hartford Township
- David W. Masterson – Jefferson Township
- Kendall Donavan Dean Arnold – Kirkland Township
- Gerald M. (Jerry) Walker – Monroe Township
- Darrel O. Ehlerding – Preble Township
- Fred J. Kunkel – Root Township
- Megan Clouse – St. Marys Township
- Roberta Grote – Union Township
- Jeanene K. Neuenschwander – Wabash Township
- Corey Affolder – Washington Township
Democratic candidates:
- Robert W. Reef – Jefferson Township
- David A. (Dave) Smith II – Washington Township
Township trustees administer local assistance and manage township services.
Township Board Members
Dozens of candidates are running for township board positions across Adams County, including:
- Blue Creek Township: Melvin Burkhart, Kyle Roe, Jeffery Yoder
- French Township: JB Baumgartner, Doug Hill, Mike Lipscomb
- Hartford Township: Dawn Kreigh, Michael Liechty, Dee Teeple
- Jefferson Township: Dennis Caffee, Mark Lehmann, Mark Merkel
- Kirkland Township: Chrissy Arnold, David Bluhm, Rebeccah Liechty
- Monroe Township: Brice Amstutz, Trisha Moser, Ethan Sharp, Nancy Walker
- Preble Township: Micah Borne, Timothy Hoffman, Dennis Werling
- Root Township: Trevor Callahan, Ryan Miller, Jeffrey Sheets
- St. Marys Township: Amanda Heiser, Randy Johnson, Jim Jones
- Union Township: Bradley Girod, Terry Grubaugh, Jessica Roemer
- Wabash Township: John Amstutz, James Bradtmueller Jr., Steve Kuhn, Mark Neuenschwander
- Washington Township: Michele Barger, Gunner Butler, Susan Miller
These boards assist with township budgeting and oversight.
Town Council
- Agnes Schoch (Republican) – Geneva District 2
- Andrew J. Briggs (Democratic) – Geneva District 3
Convention Delegates
Both parties have multiple candidates for county convention delegate positions, including:
Republican Delegates:
Brice Amstutz, Kelly Amstutz, Shelly Brite, Leonard Corral Jr., Matt Dyer, Darrel Ehlerding, Michael Garza, Shawn Hamrick, Steve Justus, Gina Melcher, Judi Merkel, Mark Merkel, Trisha Moser, Keven Sipe, Charles Tooley, Jim Voglewede
Democratic Delegates:
Kaitlyn Barlage, Megan Dunlap, Erica Dyer, Jenny Bowers Shultz, David Smith II, Ashley Theurer
Precinct Committeemen (Democratic)
Candidates include:
Julia Reef, Kathi Drake, Jenny Bowers Shultz, Ashley Theurer, Molly Cochran, Norman Glass, Robert Reef, Debra Giessler, Laura Hakes, Jessica Rambo, Janet Smith
These roles focus on party organization at the precinct level.
The 2026 Adams County Primary ballot is extensive, covering federal representation down to local township governance. Many races are uncontested, while others—particularly at the federal and state level—feature multiple candidates.
Voters are encouraged to review the full ballot ahead of Election Day to better understand the offices and candidates appearing this year.
WHITLEY COUNTY
County Offices
Assessor
Kimberly K. Erdly (R)
Auditor
Tiffany Deakins (R)
Clerk of Circuit Court
Jessica Hockemeyer (R)
Commissioner – District 2
Tena Woenker (D); Rob Schuman (R)
County Council
District 1: Cindy Doolittle (R)
District 2: Michael Bauer (R); Kiel Klopfenstein (R); Damien Stafford (R); Scott Wise (R)
District 3: Nick Brewer (R); Mindy Muchow (R)
District 4: Judy Earnhart (R); Matt A. Gaff (R); Joe Grant (R)
Prosecutor
Daniel J. Sigler Jr. (R)
Recorder
April Whetstone (R)
Sheriff
Gary Archbold (R); Jason Spencer (R)
CITY & TOWNSHIP RACES (WHITLEY COUNTY)
Churubusco
Town Council (Vote for 2): Gage Shively (R); Nathan Van Horn (R)
Cleveland Township
Board: Lynn Duggins (R); Jen Krider (R); Chris A. Trier (R)
Trustee: James R. Yeager (R)
Columbia Township
Board: Matt Boyd (R); Jon Muchow (R); Brandon K. Smith (R); Caleb Wakeman (R)
Trustee: Cami Hippenhammer (R); Jordan Tincher (R)
Etna-Troy Township
Board: Dale A. Leedy (R); April Waugh (R); Benjamin Western (R); Wesley Wolfe (R)
Trustee: Tyler D. Wolfe (R)
Jefferson Township
Board: Joe Mueller (R); Noah Stetzel (R); Jason Whiteleather (R)
Trustee: Chad A. Nix (R)
Richland Township
Board: Steven Hoopingarner (R); Billy Maddox (R); Monte Wilkinson (R)
Trustee: Kimberly K. Arnold (R)
Smith Township
Board: Philip A. Eyermann (D); Robert L. Allman (R); Barbara Boggs (R); James L. Horne (R); Kathy Shively (R)
Trustee: Marcus Gatton (R)
Thorncreek Township
Board: Ryan Geiger (R); Dan Heckman (R); Jon S. Kissinger (R)
Trustee: Bill Brice (R)
Union Township
Board: Frank E. Johnson (R); Evan Johnson (R); Ben Knecht (R); Todd Kyler (R)
Trustee: Matthew Hiss (R); Galen Johnson (R); Danielle E. Oliver (R); Chad Radke (R)
Washington Township
Board: Larry E. Ashbaugh (R); Richard Cox (R); Ryan J. Walter (R)
Trustee: Kevin Bollinger (R)
FINAL OVERVIEW
The May 5, 2026 primary election represents one of the most expansive ballots in northeast Indiana history. Across Adams County, Allen County, Huntington County, Noble County, and Whitley County, voters will decide races that directly impact federal representation, state legislation, and everyday local services.
While high-profile races for Congress and the Indiana General Assembly often draw the most attention, many of the positions on the ballot — particularly township trustees, board members, and county offices — play a critical role in shaping infrastructure, emergency services, budgeting, and community programs.
Residents are encouraged to review their full ballots ahead of Election Day and participate in the democratic process, helping determine leadership at every level of government.
