While there may still be around three months until the Primary election in Putnam County, the stage is set as the Secretary of State's Election Division has certified the primary ballots. Voter registration is open until April 8.
On May 7, Republican voters will decide among four candidates for the County Commissioner District 1 seat as Andy T. Beck, of Bainbridge, Brad Buchanan, of Greencastle, David Furhman, of Bainbridge, and Don B. Hatfield, of Bainbridge, are all running.
In addition, Republicans will also have a contested Putnam County at-large race to decide, as there are five candidates looking for three seats. Running for re-election is Stephanie Campbell, of Greencastle. She faces challenges from Amanda Brown, of Greencastle, Daryn Clifford, of Roachdale, Chad Colvin, of Russellville and Kerry L. Williams, of Greencastle.
Putnam County Commissioner for District 3 Tom Helmer, Putnam County Auditor Kristina Berish, Putnam County Coroner Todd Zeiner and Putnam County Treasurer Karrie Minor are all unopposed.
While the Republicans have two contested local races, there are no Democrats running for county office in May.
The contested races are not just exclusive to Putnam County, as Congressman Jim Baird, of Greencastle, is facing challengers looking to primary the incumbent Republican. Running are Charles Bookwalter, of Thorntown, Jon Piper, of Camby, and Trent Lester, of Lafayette.
Democrats Rimpi Girn, of Plainfield, and Derrick Holder, of Martinsville, will square off in the Democratic primary.
Republicans will also have a voice in deciding who will represent their party to fill Senate District 24's seat following the retirement of incumbent John Crane. Avon residents Brett Clark and Anne Engelhardt will square off in the primary with the winner facing former Greencastle Common Council member and Demorcat Veronica Pejril in November.
Another Statehouse race to watch is that of Senate District 37, as Republican Rod Bray is facing a challenge from Jay Hart. The winner will face Democrat Kimberly Schofield in November.
