Knox County Clerk Withdraws from Mayoral Race

Knox County Criminal Court Clerk Mike Hammond has withdrawn from the 2026 mayoral race to focus on re-election as he deals with an early-stage prostate cancer diagnosis. His decision underscores the importance of health and family, as he emphasizes the need for regular health screenings. In Clackamas County, Commission Chair Tootie Smith is projected to lose her re-election bid to former Sheriff Craig Roberts, amidst a broader shift that could reshape the commission's conservative majority. Meanwhile, in Columbia County, longtime Commissioner Ron Williams lost to newcomer Kevin Parnell, who aims to bring significant change to the district. In Calhoun County, incumbent Clerk of Court Lakeisha S. Moorer was defeated by Republican challenger Bob Brockington, while most other incumbents retained their positions. These election results reflect significant transitions in local governance across several counties.