Candidates begin filing, declare intentions to run for local, state and federal offices

Story By Katie Hightower

Qualifying for the 2026 election cycle is underway and candidates have already announced their intentions to run. Both Jackson County and the state will have seats to be filled.

In Jackson County, offices included: Jackson County Commission Chairman; Jackson County Commissioner (Districts 1 and 2); Jackson County Revenue Commissioner; Jackson County Sheriff, Jackson County Coroner; Jackson County Board of Education (Districts 3 and 4).

On the federal level offices included: U.S. Senator; U.S. House of Representatives (7 seats)

On the state level offices included: Governor; Lt. Governor; Secretary of State; State Treasurer; State Auditor; Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries; State Senator; State Representative; State Board of Education (Districts 2, 4, 6 and 8); Court of Criminal Appeals Judges (Places 4 and 5); Court of Civil Appeals Judges (Places 4 and 5) and Public Service Commission (Places 1 and 2). 

Candidates seeking nomination for county office party primary must file a declaration of candidacy with the county party chairman after Jan. 5 and no later than 5 p.m. on Jan. 23. 

Those seeking nomination for state office party primary must file a declaration of candidacy with the state party chairman no later than 5 p.m. on Jan. 23.