The 2026 election season in Knox County kicked off Monday as 17 candidates filed petitions on the opening day of the filing period for the March 17, 2026, Primary Election.
Four countywide offices saw first-day filings:
- Knox County Sheriff: Jack Harlan Jr. (Republican)
- Knox County Treasurer: Jerrie Ann Walters (Republican)
- Knox County Clerk and Recorder: Scott G. Erickson (Republican) and Johan Henrikson (Democrat)
Five County Board districts had candidates file on day one:
- District 1: Jaclyn Smith-Esters (Democrat)
- District 2: Bob Bondi (Republican)
- District 3: Pamela Davidson (Democrat)
- District 4: Bradley Hix (Republican)
- District 5: Brian Friedrich (Republican)
At the precinct level, six Democratic candidates and two Republican candidates filed for Precinct Committeeperson.
The filing window remains open through the close of business on Monday, Nov. 3.