JAMES WOOD

Staff Writer

With the local, state and federal elections approaching this year, Administrator of Elections Summer Leverette spoke in an exclusive interview about her history with the Bedford County government and the importance of civic engagement.

Growing up in Bedford County, Leverette originally worked at the Shelbyville Pencil Company prior to her applying for a job opening at the Bedford County Election Commission for Deputy Administrator in 2000.

Seven years after starting her role as Deputy Administrator, she was elevated to the position of Administrator that she holds today and has held for over 18 years, presiding over numerous elections in the past.

Leverette highlighted the importance of being engaged in the civic process whether it be local or nationwide.

“Any election is important to vote in no matter which one it is, but your local elections are where the people matter to you directly,” Leverette continued. “It impacts all of what you see first-hand, like ordinances and other things that happen locally.”

She also discussed the importance of registering to vote before the deadline, with state law requiring you to be registered to vote at least 30 days prior to any given election.

“That’s one of the most important things that people need to know is that they need to be prepared a little bit beforehand,” said Leverette.

While early voting for the May 5, 2026 local primaries is underway, the voter registration deadline for the upcoming Aug 4 election will be set to be on July 5.

Bedford County’s Board of Commissioners is based on nine districts with two elected commissioners for each in which residents may cast two votes for their candidates of choice.

In addition, voters must visit their voting precinct’s designated polling place on Election Day with the exception of early voting, which is held at the basement of the Bedford County Courthouse Annex.

Leverette encapsulated the responsibility that she and the Election Commission bear when running elections.

“From start to finish, you’re making sure that everyone’s vote is collected correctly and that the process of the election goes smoothly and fairly,” said Leverette.