JAMES WOOD

Staff Writer

Primary elections for the Republican and Democratic parties were held on May 5, with several contested races for important positions in the county government.

With Mayor Chad Graham’s retirement from his position after two terms, the mayoral race has become one of the most contested this year with six candidates vying for the people’s vote this August after the Republican primary.

Of the preliminary results from the Bedford County Election Commission, Bedford County Schools (BCS) Safety Director Chad Fletcher came up with the most votes on Tuesday, garnering 1,705. Following Fletcher was Ally Puckett, who finished with 1,045 votes. James Sloan finished in third with 399 votes. Write-ins took up the rest of the vote with 68 ballots.

“I am forever grateful and humbled by all the support I’ve received in this campaign. I appreciate every vote and your confidence in me,” said Fletcher. “As we continue to write a new chapter in our collective story together, I will remain focused on our people, community and ways we can move productively forward. I am committed to ensuring that every citizen in our county is heard, respected and represented.”

Chief Deputy Nikia Elliott, who advanced from the Republican primary unopposed, commented on the race to fill Sheriff Austin Swing’s position this August.

“I just want to thank everyone who turned out to vote and make their voice heard. I certainly want to thank those who cast a complimentary vote to make me the Republican nominee for Sheriff,” said Elliott. “While I would love to see a 100% participation in our Bedford County elections, overall this was a pretty good turnout for a primary. I am excited for the final leg of this race, and I hope to see everyone out there on the campaign trail.”

In the race to fill the vacancy left by former Property Assessor Ronda Clanton, vote tallies indicate that Emily Redd Hodges came in first place for the Republican nomination to move forward to August with 1,975 votes. Drew Reed came in second place with 1,307 votes.

“I have had amazing support and I am very grateful to the voters who got out and cast their votes in the primary election. These local primary elections are important in choosing the leadership for the county and community it serves,” said Hodges. “My experience throughout this campaign and election has been so humbling, and I look forward to working hard and earning my community’s support and trust for the General Election in August.”

The Republican primary for District 1 of the Board of Commissioners saw a tight race on election night, with Sergeant Jared Featherstone of the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office coming out on top with 513 votes. Incumbent Eric Maddox came in second in a tight race to retain his party’s nomination against Mark A. McBryant. They each received 393 votes and 370 votes respectively. Featherstone and Maddox will advance to the general election with the Republican nomination to the two seats in the district.

Democratic nominee for District 3 of the Board of Commissioners Pat Coreno shared his enthusiasm with the upcoming general election.

“I am grateful for the support our campaign has received from people across the community,” said Coreno. “No matter someone’s political background, I believe voters want practical leadership, open communication and a focus on the issues affecting everyday families in our community. I look forward to continuing that conversation throughout the district as we head towards August.”

Detailed election results are available in a separate article in the Bedford County Post.