Knox County voters will see a crowded Republican ballot heading into the upcoming primary election, with several key local races contested. The race for sheriff features four Republican candidates, all current deputies, Mike Fisher, John Fuller, Paul Jones, and Dan Short. Current Sheriff Doug Vantlin is not seeking re-election. The winner will advance to face Democrat Brian Hagen in November. The Republican primary for county assessor includes Ovi Ciceu, Zac Harper, and Robert “Woody” Woodward. No Democrat has filed for that race. In the County Commissioner District 3 race, Rich Chattin and Matt Hoffman are competing for the seat being vacated by Kellie Streeter, who is running for state office. Several County Council races are also contested on the Republican side, including Districts 1, 3, and 4, with no Democratic candidates filed in those races. For county recorder, Republicans Vickie Bottoms and Blake Wilson are running to replace the outgoing officeholder, while Democrat Lisa Ritterskamp will appear on the general election ballot.
