We’re starting to officially see the names of candidates attempting to run for office in 2026.
Races this year include all state offices such as governor, attorney general, and many at the county level. The filing deadline for partisan candidates for the May primary was Wednesday.
Tuscarawas county board of elections director Dave Johnson says workers there have been compiling a list of those who filed. Johnson says election officials will next review the petitions to determine whether each candidate met the signature requirement to be placed on the ballot.
The board next meets to certify the petitions on Monday.
Right now, voters in May could see tax issues for the New Philadelphia and Strasburg school districts, as well as in the villages of Mineral City, Newcomerstown and Tusky.
Candidates hoping to run for Tuscarawas County Commissioner include incumbent Republican Kristin Zemis and Democrat Kent Watson. For county auditor, Republicans Lisa Contini and Brett Hillyer and Democrat Joe Rinehart have filed. For Common Pleas Court Judge, newly appointed Republican Ryan Styer and Democrat Christine Weimer filed, while judges Mike Ernest and Adam Wilgus appear to be unopposed – for now.
For State Rep, Republican Jodi Salvo is seeking re-election. Two Democrats filed in the race – they are Amanda Fontana and Angie Hall Pekarek. And Four Democrats could be competing in the primary to face Republican Congressman Michael Rulli. They are Charles DiPalma, Elizabeth Kirtley, Malcome Ritchie, and Adrian Vitus.
Non-partisan candidates can still enter the races for the November election. Their filing deadline is in August.
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