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Checotah Today
By the People, for the People
McIntosh County Voters Face Competitive Commissioner Races
Filing closes for 2026 election, setting up primaries for key county leadership positions.
Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:08pm
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The McIntosh County Courthouse stands as a symbol of local governance, its stately presence a backdrop for the competitive commissioner races that will shape the community's future.Checotah TodayFiling for the 2026 election cycle in McIntosh County, Oklahoma has closed, leaving voters with a mix of uncontested races and several competitive contests, particularly for the County Commissioner seats in Districts 1 and 3. While some incumbent officials like the County Assessor, Treasurer, and a State House Representative were re-elected without opposition, the commissioner races have drawn multiple Republican candidates who will face off in the June 16 primary election.
Why it matters
County commissioners play a crucial role in overseeing local infrastructure, budgets, and roads, making the District 1 and 3 races significant for McIntosh County voters. The outcome of these contests could impact key decisions affecting the community.
The details
In District 3, four Republicans have filed: Bobby Ziegler, Jaymn Burdine, Chip Collins, and Gunner Ford. No Democrat filed, so the Republican primary winner is expected to secure the seat. In District 1, two Republicans (Jeff Coleman and Jeff Boyd) and one Democrat (Loyal Dean Taylor) filed, with the Republican primary determining which candidate advances to the general election.
- Candidate filing closed on April 3, 2026.
- The Primary Election will be held on June 16, 2026.
- A runoff election, if needed, is scheduled for August 25, 2026.
- The General Election is set for November 3, 2026.
The players
Jennifer Ballard
The McIntosh County Assessor, who was re-elected without opposition.
Kimberly Smelser
The McIntosh County Treasurer, who was re-elected without opposition.
Brendon Bridges
The McIntosh County Associate District Judge, who was re-elected without opposition.
Neil Hays
The Republican representative for Oklahoma House District 13, which serves portions of McIntosh County. Hays has focused on rural communities, agriculture, and local economic development.
Tim Turner
The Republican representative for Oklahoma House District 15, which serves portions of McIntosh County. Turner has been active in supporting rural economic development and community initiatives.
What they’re saying
“While several county races were uncontested, the commissioner contests and Senate race will give voters decisions to make this election cycle.”
— Shauna Belyeu, General Manager
What’s next
The Primary Election will be held on June 16, 2026, with a runoff scheduled for August 25, 2026 if needed. The General Election is set for November 3, 2026.
The takeaway
The competitive county commissioner races in McIntosh County's Districts 1 and 3 will be crucial local contests, as the commissioners play a vital role in overseeing infrastructure, budgets, and roads. The outcomes of these races could significantly impact the community.
