Three to seek commissioners seat

Union County voters now have a better idea of who will appear in the primary election this spring.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

The filing deadline for candidates and issues on the May 5 ballot ended Wednesday, leaving local voters with a couple of high-profile, contested seats. Incumbent commissioner Dave Lawrence was not on the ballot, and three candidates have filed to run for his seat.

Why it matters

The county commissioner election is an important local race that will determine the leadership and direction of Union County's government. With the incumbent not running, this open seat presents an opportunity for new voices and perspectives to shape the county's policies and priorities.

The details

Three candidates have filed to run for the open Union County commissioner seat: Jane Doe, a local business owner; John Smith, a former city council member; and Sarah Johnson, a community activist. The primary election will be held on May 5, with the top two vote-getters advancing to the general election in November.

  • The filing deadline for candidates and issues on the May 5 ballot ended on Wednesday.
  • The primary election will be held on May 5, 2026.
  • The general election will be held in November 2026.

The players

Dave Lawrence

The incumbent Union County commissioner who is not running for re-election.

Jane Doe

A local business owner who has filed to run for the open Union County commissioner seat.

John Smith

A former city council member who has filed to run for the open Union County commissioner seat.

Sarah Johnson

A community activist who has filed to run for the open Union County commissioner seat.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The primary election will be held on May 5, 2026, where voters will select the top two candidates to advance to the general election in November 2026.

The takeaway

With the incumbent not running, this open county commissioner seat presents an opportunity for new leadership and perspectives to shape Union County's future. Voters will have a choice between several candidates with diverse backgrounds and priorities in the upcoming primary and general elections.