Brooke Weaver First In Line As Qualifying Starts For Big 2026 Election

Brooke Weaver on Monday was first in line picking up qualifying papers on the first day that candidates can do so for the big 2026 election.

Ms. Weaver, who is running for the seat being vacated by longtime County Court Clerk Bill Knowles, said, "Mr. Knowles was always first in line to pick up papers and the first to file them. I'm trying to follow in his footsteps."

Mr. Knowles has endorse Ms. Weaver, who serves as chief deputy in the office.

Independent George R. Love also picked up to run for the post.

Meanwhile, County Mayor Weston Wamp said he plans to pick up papers this week. He said in an Internet post, "This week, I’ll be picking up papers to run for re-election to serve the final four years of the eight year commitment Shelby and I made. It was a commitment to bring the heart of parents into county government. To think about the services of the health department, the safety of our roads, the construction of new schools, and the experience of our parks through the perspective of our youngest citizens.

"The work is not always easy, but we believe we are making a difference."

The qualifying deadline is Feb. 19. Early voting is April 15-30 for the May 5 primary election. The general election is Aug. 6.

Other Constitutional Officers picking up on the first day were Trustee Bill Hullander, Circuit Court Clerk Larry Henry, Register of Deeds Marc Gravitt and Juvenile Court Clerk Gary Behler.

Democrat Aaliyah Hakeem, daughter of state Rep. Yusuf Hakeem, picked up to run for Criminal Court Clerk. Incumbent Republican Vince Dean has announced that he is running again. Ms. Hakeem formerly worked in the clerk's office.

Jennifer Peck, who was appointed Circuit Court Judge, Division 2, by Governor Bill Lee, picked up papers to run for the post. The judgeship became open when Judge Mike Dumitru moved to federal magistrate.

Most County Commission incumbents picked up to run again, including Gene-o Shipley in District 1, Chip Baker in District 2, Ken Smith in District 3, Warren Mackey in District 4, David Sharpe in District 6, Mike Chauncey in District 8, Steve Highlander in District 9, Jeff Eversole in District 10 and Joe Graham in District 11.

Collegedale Commissioner Tonya Sadler picked up for the District 10 race and Mona Petro in District 1.