Final Candidate List Set for 2026 Clay County Election Cycle

As the candidate filing period for the upcoming 2026 election cycle in Clay County, North Carolina comes to a close, voters are being introduced to the full slate of candidates who will appear on the ballot. The county’s primary election will take place on March 3, 2026, following the filing period that opened in early December 2025 and wrapped up on December 19, 2025.

County Commission Race Draws Broad Field

The Clay County Board of Commissioners race — traditionally one of the most watched local contests — has attracted a diverse group of contenders representing multiple parties and affiliations. Those running for seats on the County Commission are:

• Andy James (Republican)

• Matt Denham (Republican)

• Keyla Youngblood-Stillwell (Democrat)

• Sandy Zimmerman (Unaffiliated)

• Ronnie Byers (Unaffiliated)

• Bonnye Williams (Republican)

• Jason Rickett (Republican)

• Christian Reagan (Republican)

• Robert Seibert (Republican)

• Tighe White (Republican)

• Dwight McClure (Republican)

This mix of candidates ensures the commission race will feature contested primaries, particularly within the Republican field where multiple contenders are vying for seats.

Other Countywide Offices

Several high-profile county offices are also contested in the upcoming election:

• Sheriff:

  • Mark Buchanan (Republican)

  • Joe Shook (Republican)

• Clerk of Court:

  • Tim Barrett (Republican)

• Register of Deeds:

  • Angie Shook (Republican)

These candidates will appear on the ballot for partisan races in Clay County, with Republican primaries likely shaping the general election lineup.

School Board Contests

Education leadership in Clay County is also on the ballot, with several candidates seeking seats on the Clay County Board of Education:

• Jessica McClure (Unaffiliated)

• Jason Shook (Republican) (Incumbent)

• Keith Parker (Republican)

• Kevin Crawford (Republican)

• Brett Woody (Republican)

• Reba Beck (Republican)

These races may see competitive contests in both party primaries and the general election, offering voters choices about the future direction of public education in the county. t

What Voters Should Know

• Primary Election: March 3, 2026 — where party nominations for contested seats will be decided. Board of Elections

• Voters should make sure they are registered ahead of the election and understand the deadlines for absentee and early voting. Board of Elections