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Jackson County Exec LeVota Reverses Decision, Will Run Again
LeVota cites lack of qualified candidates as reason to reconsider his previous pledge not to run for reelection.
Mar. 29, 2026 at 1:41pm
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As Jackson County's political landscape shifts, the future of local leadership hangs in the balance.Jackson TodayIn a surprising move, Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota has announced that he will run for reelection, reversing his previous decision to not seek another term. LeVota cited the lack of qualified candidates, specifically citing concerns about the only other declared candidate, Stacy Lake, as the primary reason for his decision to reconsider.
Why it matters
LeVota's decision to run again comes after he had previously promised to only serve out the remainder of the current term and not seek reelection. His change of heart raises questions about political promises and whether elected officials should be held to their word, even if circumstances change.
The details
In a statement, LeVota explained that he was initially not interested in serving beyond the current term, but changed his mind after realizing that the only other candidate, Stacy Lake, was not qualified or experienced enough to lead the county effectively. LeVota said he felt a responsibility to the people of Jackson County to ensure a competent leader was in place, even if it meant going back on his previous pledge.
- LeVota had previously stated he would not run for reelection.
- The deadline for candidates to file for the Jackson County Executive race is April 15, 2026.
The players
Phil LeVota
The current Jackson County Executive who has now decided to run for reelection, reversing his previous pledge to not seek another term.
Stacy Lake
The only other declared candidate for the Jackson County Executive race, whom LeVota has criticized as being unqualified and inexperienced.
What they’re saying
“If folks are going to hold me to what I promised to, we ought to get the whole scenario of what I said and what I believed then and now. It is the same position I am in and my concerns are what is best for Jackson County.”
— Phil LeVota, Jackson County Executive
“This is about democracy and the people of Jackson County should choose who they want and no one should ever be prohibited, shamed, or belittled to utilize that constitutional right to run for office.”
— Phil LeVota, Jackson County Executive
What’s next
The deadline for candidates to file for the Jackson County Executive race is April 15, 2026. Voters in Jackson County will have the opportunity to choose between LeVota and any other candidates who decide to run.
The takeaway
LeVota's decision to run again despite his previous pledge not to highlights the complexities of political promises and the need to balance principles with pragmatic concerns about the quality of leadership. Voters in Jackson County will now have a choice to make about the county's future direction.
