BATESVILLE, Ark. — Independence County voters will choose among candidates for several county offices and help decide nonpartisan races for four divisions of the 16th Judicial District Circuit Court when polls open Tuesday, March 3.
The preferential primary covers partisan county positions, while the judicial races appear on the ballot as nonpartisan general elections. Early voting has been available at the Independence County Courthouse.
County Judge Incumbent Kevin B. Jeffery faces challenger Mark W. Biram in the Republican primary. Jeffery, a Republican, was first elected in 2023 and is seeking a second term. He oversees county operations including roads, budgets, solid waste and emergency management.
Sheriff Incumbent Shawn Stephens, a Republican, is challenged by Susan Baxter in the Republican primary.
County Clerk An open seat following the retirement of Tracey Mitchell features Lisa Ann Drake and Gena Lawrence, both Republicans.
Other county races include unopposed or contested spots for circuit clerk, coroner, tax assessor, tax collector, treasurer and multiple justice of the peace and constable positions.
16th Judicial District Circuit Court The district serves Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard and Stone counties. All four divisions are contested in nonpartisan races:
- Division 1: Holly Meyer (incumbent) vs. Chaney Taylor.
- Division 2: Which typically handles domestic relations cases, guardianships, and adoptions, includes candidates Scott Davidson, Kara Byars, and Thomas Kendrick.
- Division 3: Lee Harrod (incumbent) vs. Mathew Gray Dellinger.
- Division 4: Kimberly Edington vs. Maureen Harrod.
Voters in the district will also select a prosecuting attorney for the 16th Judicial District.
School board races in the Batesville, Cave City, Cedar Ridge, Concord, Midland and Southside districts are also on the ballot.
For a full sample ballot and polling location, contact the Independence County Election Commission or visit the Arkansas Secretary of State’s candidate search at candidates.arkansas.gov. All candidates are presumed qualified unless otherwise noted, and results will be certified following the election.
