Several contested races await Parke County voters

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 12:06 PM

By Paul Gable

While there's not a whole lot of contention in Parke County politics, there are several contested races for the upcoming May primary cycle.

The biggest contested races center around the Parke County Commissioners as two incumbents are seeking re-election and facing stiff opposition.

Republican and District 3 incumbent Jim Meece faces a challenge for his seat from Donna Irelan Smith, while District 2 Commissioner and Republican Bruce Hartman faces a challenge from Daniel Jensen, Cameron Martin and Jeffrey A. Ramey. Democrat Chance Hoover is also running for the seat.

For County Council, District 3 will feature a tussle between Republicans Caleb Chambers and Jacob King, while incumbents Roy Wrightsman (District 4), Rick Patton (District 2) and Thomas Rohr (District 1) are all unopposed in the Republican primary.

The Rockville Town Council will look different next year, as Democrat Kevin Callans waits to see who comes out of a crowded Republican primary for council seats. Republican candidates include Shane Russell, Roger Smith and Tyson Conrady. Incumbent Brandy Asher is running unopposed for the Clerk-Treasurer position.

The Town of Montezuma also sees a contested race as Republican incumbent Sara Bovair faces a challenge from John "Jay" Norris. Republican and incumbent Cathy Morgan again seeks a term as Clerk-Treasurer.

Incumbent Katie Potter faces no opposition for County Assessor, Sheriff Jason Frazier is unopposed, while Clerk Nicole Collings, Surveyor Gregory Lohrmann and Auditor Susan Kramer are all unopposed. All are Republicans. Republican Tim Smith is seeking the role of County Coroner.