CANDIDATE INFORMATION

Preferential Primary Early voting begins February 16, 2026
Preferential Primary Election is March 3, 2026.

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*Denotes Incumbent

STATE CANDIDATES

US CANDIDATES

State Candidates

US Candidates

Nonpartisan Candidates

Ballot Issues

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE DISTRICT 1

CHUCK VAN VELKINBURGH*

UNCONTESTED

Chuck Van Velkinburgh announces his candidacy for re-election for Justice of the Peace District 1 in Marion County Arkansas.

I have attended Quorum Court meetings in the last three years, two as a citizen that wanted to learn how to get involved in county government and this year as an elected official. I am very proud to be part of this Quorum Court to keep Marion County going in a positive direction. In rural America, the two biggest tasks the court should be tasked with are Law Enforcement and roads in my opinion. I am happy to say that as part of the present court we have raised the pay of law enforcement to attract and keep the best qualified people that are possible. Mission accomplished! The next task upcoming to the court is to upgrade the road department, we need to increase the size of the department to repair and maintain the present road system. I have traveled around district 1 and have seen roads in need of maintenance. I am sure the other 8 districts in the county are very similar. The Judge and road department can only do so much with the resources now available.

I look forward to working with the other Justices to accomplish this need. I ask the constituents in district 1 for your support, so we can continue to move our county in a positive direction.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE DISTRICT 2

SANDRA LEE*

Uncontested

Sandra Lee announces her candidacy for Marion County Justice of the Peace District 2. She is a part of the Marion County Republican Party.

Originally born and raised in Wisconsin, she grew up on a small family farm where she learned dedication and discipline at an early age. Over the last 27 years and three states, she has owned and operated three separate businesses, learning the importance of transparency and honesty within her daily life.

Throughout her life, she has always prioritized giving back to the community, spending time volunteering with local human societies, park clean-ups, Angel Tree and rescue blanket ministries along with other service and boards within her church.

Lee and her family have been vacationing in Bull Shoals since 1995 and put down permanent roots in 2019 with her husband of 31 years, Mark. She currently works for Bull Shoals Family Dental.

Mark is a Sergeant for the Marion County Sheriff’s Department, they have one daughter, Alexis, and a rescued dog named Buddy.

Sandra has an open mind, eagerness to learn and wants to help make a positive change and impact on Marion County by being the voice of the citizens of Bull Shoals. She currently serves on the following committees for Marion County: Budget, Law Enforcement and Personnel.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE DISTRICT 3

TRAVIS HOPSON*

Uncontested

I am announcing my intent to run for Marion County Justice of the Peace, Pct #3. I feel that my 31 years of public service will help me to serve the Citizens of Marion County. I began my Law Enforcement career at the age of 19 with Campus Security while in college. I have worked as a Jailer, Bailiff, Patrol Officer, Criminal Investigator, Corrections Officer, and currently Police Chief of the City of Cotter. I have worked in City, County, and State Agencies, and have worked hard to serve the community with the utmost integrity and professionalism.

My Wife and I have raised our two daughters in Marion County, and I have a deep love for this place. I feel that it is time I gave back to our hard-working Community. As your Justice of the Peace, I will strive to continue making Marion County a place to be proud of. I bring a unique set of skills having worked for municipal, county, and state government and possess a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science from the University of Texas at Tyler.

As the current Police Chief for the City of Cotter I have an integral knowledge of the Budget process and how to work with people to obtain common goals. I feel that this position is truly an extension of the voters and citizens of Marion County, and as your JP I will work hard to create an atmosphere where compromise is welcomed. In my first year as JP 3 , I have served on the Budget, Law Enforcement, and Procedures and Management Committees. I am a Conservative Republican who believes in God, strongly defends the Constitution, and loves his family and community. I will work hard to bridge gaps and create a more productive and sound government so that citizens can be proud to live and work in Marion County.

Thank you and God Bless,

Travis Hopson

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE DISTRICT 4

KOLTON JENSEN*

Uncontested

My name is Kolton Jensen and I am very pleased to be your Justice of the Peace for Marion County District 4.

As a lifelong resident of Marion County, I will strive to maintain the values I was raised upon. I am a Christian, husband to my wife of 9 years, and father of two beautiful boys and growing family. I am the proud owner of Woods Wrecker Service 2, providing towing/recovery services to citizens of the county.

As your Justice of the Peace, I have worked hard for the citizens of Marion County. In my first year I have served on the Law Enforcement and Personnel Committees. I, just like you, am a dedicated individual who understands the values and morals needed to make our county successful and prosper for generations to come. The success of our schools, law enforcement, road department, citizens, and county entities are my utmost priority, and I look forward to representing District 4.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE DISTRICT 5

KALE WALLACE

Uncontested

My name is Kale Wallace, and I’m honored to be running for Justice of the Peace in Marion County District 5 as a Republican.

I was born and raised in Marion County, attending K-12 at Flippin Public Schools. I then pursued a degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. By the time I graduated with my degree, I had already worked for an oil and gas company for a couple years, and for the next 15 years, I lived in Houston and Tulsa working as an engineer. My family and I were blessed to be able to move back home to the family farm in early 2024, and I still consult clients in the form of analyzing data and advising on valuations and investments in the oilfield.

Speaking of family, I’ve been married to my beautiful wife, Kayla, for 16 years and have two children—Tatum,11 and Briggs, 8.

I’m looking forward to serving on the Marion County Quorum Court where I hope to bring fiscally conservative ideals and a limited government mindset—backed by my experience learned in the business world.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE DISTRICT 6

LESLIE KERWOOD *

Uncontested

Leslie Kerwood, a Republican, has announced she will seek re-election as Justice of the Peace for Marion County’s District 6.

A Marion County native, Kerwood graduated from Yellville-Summit High School in 2000. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s degree in psychology. She currently works for Summit Community Care, an Arkansas Medicaid PASSE program that serves clients with complex behavioral health, developmental or intellectual disabilities.

Kerwood and her husband, Mike, live on a small farm where they raise cattle. She said her agricultural background and community involvement have shaped her work on the quorum court.

“I am a lifetime resident and love my community and way of life,” Kerwood said in a statement.

Kerwood previously served on the Board of Directors for Marion County Community Services, where she worked to advance the development of a community center for residents.

She and her husband have six children and four grandchildren.

Kerwood said she has served on the county’s Budget, Personnel and Solid Waste committees during her current term. She noted that the Budget Committee has focused on managing county spending and securing FEMA and grant reimbursements related to recent natural disasters.

She said the quorum court recently approved funding to update courtroom video and audio systems and made personnel policy changes aimed at improving employee retention.

“I am extremely passionate about helping the residents of Marion County be the best version of ourselves, and I would like to continue serving as your voice for Justice of the Peace, District 6,” Kerwood said.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE DISTRICT 7

MARION WESLEY SHIPMAN*

Uncontested

Marion Wesley Shipman, is seeking re-election for Justice of the Peace, District 7. Shipman is semi-retired from a family business, Shipman Pump Service in Yellville. He has strong family ties to Marion County.

Shipman believes his business experience and working knowledge of the county helps him make good fiscally sound decisions to ensure that Marion County is run effectively for the citizens of Marion County.

Shipman has served as JP 7 for past 30 years and would like the honor of continuing to represent the constituents in Justice of the Peace, District 7.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE DISTRICT 8

TOMMY DORSEY*

Uncontested

My name is Tommy Dorsey, and I am currently serving as your Justice of the Peace District #8.

I moved from Fayetteville to Yellville in 2003.

I have worked at the same Financial Institution for 25 years.

As well as serving as Justice of the Peace District # 8, I also serve on the City of Yellville Park Board and City of Yellville Planning and Zoning Board.

I want to see Marion County Prosper, and I believe we can do this by working together.

I am respectfully asking you the Voters from District #8 to Re-Elect me as your Justice of the Peace District #8.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE DISTRICT 9
2 CANDIDATES

MILES WELLEIN

Miles Wellein is a candidate for Justice of the Peace for District 9 and previously served in the role after being appointed by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders in November 2023 to complete the term of the late Justice Joyce McCalla. He served through December 31, 2024, contributing on the Law Enforcement and Personnel Committees and gaining firsthand experience with the responsibilities and decision-making required on the Quorum Court.

Wellein is a decorated combat veteran, commissioned in the United States Army in 2009. His life and career have been shaped by service, discipline, and a respect for the principles that guide good governance. As a constitutional conservative, Miles believes in responsible local government, limited intrusion, and protecting individual freedoms while ensuring the county operates efficiently and transparently.

Miles and his wife Jenna, along with their son, have made Marion County their home, and he is deeply committed to representing the values and priorities of the community. During his time as Justice of the Peace, he focused on practical solutions, fiscal accountability, and transparent leadership—putting the interests of local residents above political rhetoric.

With proven experience on the Quorum Court and a commitment rooted in conservative principles, Miles Wellein seeks to continue serving District 9 with integrity, professionalism, and a dedication to protecting both the community and the constitutional values that safeguard it.

JOHN ROSENTHAL

John Rosenthal grew up in Park City, Kansas a suburb of Wichita and attended Wichita Heights High School.

John enlisted in the United States Marine Corp after his senior year in high school. After his enlistment and returning to civilian life John relocated to Springdale, Arkansas where he worked in residential and commercial construction from masonry work to roofing to painting. He worked for Southern Electrical Supply in Springdale, Arkansas in supply and logistics then was offered a job with a local contractor as an apprentice electrician. That was the beginning of his 30+ year career as a commercial and industrial electrician with about 20 of those years being an Arkansas state licensed master electrician. During that time he was placed into leadership roles as electrical superintendent on the first two middle schools to be constructed in Springdale.

John moved to rural Marion county early 2016

A former business owner and ordained minister

John fully supports the constitution and believes the first amendment is key to governance and essential for a functioning democracy. The people are the foundation of government and are therefore an integral part of the checks and balances.

John believes we can restore and maintain integrity and accountability in our government and it starts at the local level. Stating that we need to put more people in government rather than politicians.

John says we need to stop changing things and get back to the basics. The people are the foundation of government and the people rule.

He wants to be the voice of the people in Marion county district 9

COUNTY-WIDE OFFICES

MARION COUNTY JUDGE

JASON STUMPH*

Uncontested

I’m announcing my intent to run for a second term as Marion County Judge.

We have made great strides forward in Marion County during my first term, and we have done it as a team. One of my main goals during my previous campaign was to bring all County entities together to create a team like atmosphere, and that has been accomplished. Now having other elected officials and multiple departments supporting me, we are a team and ready to take on round two!

Marion County is winning right now at every single turn! Even in the face of adversity and rebuilding, we have been able to move forward. Here are a few of the many areas in which Marion County is winning…

Fiscally Responsible
– We have $3M in County General for the first time in Marion County history ( this is after approved budgets and allocated monies )
– We have been able to increase top out pay for all County employees, add positions at the Road Dept. and Sheriff’s Office, plus provide new patrol vehicles for Sheriff’s Office.

Workforce Pride and Loyal Employees
– I stated during my first campaign I wanted to make working for Marion County a place you could hang your hat on, and we have accomplished that. The turn over ratio and revolving door no longer exists, and moral has been rebuilt.

State Funding, State Aid, and Grants
– Marion County assisted the State of Arkansas with the National Opioid Settlement. Arkansas received $200M to fund Narcan kits for all Cities and Counties.
– Obtained State Aid grants for two years in the amount of $400K for paving of County roads that have needed attention for years.
– Awarded Court Security grant of $11,300; the first County in Arkansas to receive this grant for two consecutive years.
– Awarded Arkansas Rural Community grant of $30K over two consecutive years.
– Awarded planning grant of $45K to initiate the process of installing HVAC in our Historical Courthouse.
– Awarded SS4A grant of $120K to assist with the maintenance of paved roads in Marion County.

As you can see, Marion County is winning! I would appreciate your vote to keep this team together for years to come. Thank you all for the continued support. Marion County Strong! We are truly Better Together.

Judge J. Stumph

MARION COUNTY SHERIFF

GREGG ALEXANDER*

Uncontested

After 32 years with the Arkansas State Police and now 3 years as the Marion County Sheriff, Gregg Alexander is seeking a second term to serve the people of Marion County. “It has been an honor to serve this community as your Sheriff; I pledge to continue to dedicate myself in the next term as we work together to serve and protect our County.”

MARION COUNTY-CIRCUIT CLERK

RUBY SPEAK

Uncontested

Ruby Speak, a longtime Marion County resident, has announced her candidacy for Circuit and County Clerk, citing her legal experience, community involvement, and commitment to public service.

Speak has lived in Marion County for 16 years and is the parent of a Yellville-Summit High School graduate. She is an active member of the community, participating in organizations and events including the Rotary Club, local school athletics, and the annual Turkey Trot.

She brings with her years of legal experience, having worked for attorneys in private practice and nearly a decade in the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office. Speak said this background gives her a strong understanding of the legal system, which is essential to the duties of the Clerk’s Office.

If elected, she plans to focus on improving customer service by modernizing technology to increase efficiency and timeliness. She also emphasized her work ethic and dedication to the responsibilities of the office.

“I am dedicated to serving this community and committed to making the Circuit and County Clerk’s Office the best it can be,” Speak said.

MARION COUNTY TREASURER
2 CANDIDATES

AMBER KNOWLES

Ambeer Knowles has announced her candidacy for Marion County Treasurer in the March 2026 Republican primary.

Knowles, a lifetime Marion County resident, currently serves as Deputy Treasurer. She said she plans to bring increased transparency and operational efficiency to the office, building on ongoing improvements she has made to the county’s financial systems.

“I believe this role requires dedication, integrity, experience, and a servant’s heart,” Knowles said in a statement. “I am committed to advancing the county forward, and my experience and education reflect my capability to achieve this.”

Knowles joined the county in 2021 as Assistant Comptroller, working in budgeting, payroll, human resources, and accounts payable. In her current role, she has helped update revenue coding and improve budgeting methods.

A 2012 graduate of Yellville-Summit, Knowles is pursuing a business degree at Arkansas State University, where she maintains a 4.0 GPA. She is expected to graduate in December.

Knowles is a member of the Marion County Republican Party, Republican Women of Marion County, the Arkansas Treasurer’s Association, and the Mid-Marion County Rotary Club.

“I humbly ask for your vote and support to continue serving Marion County,” Knowles said.

CYNDI MUELLER

Cyndi Mueller of Yellville has officially announced her candidacy for Marion County Treasurer as a Republican in the March 2026 primary.

“My motivation for running is my passion for serving the citizens of Marion County,” Mueller said. “At the heart of everything I do is integrity. I believe taxpayer money must be managed with honesty, transparency, and accuracy—because every dollar represents the hard work of our families, neighbors, and local businesses. I have worked diligently to understand the responsibilities of the County Treasurer. This role requires integrity, experience, dedication, and a true willingness to serve others. With years of financial and leadership experience, and deep roots in this county, I’m not running for a title—I’m running to serve. My experience and education have prepared me to do just that.”

Mueller brings almost five years of experience in county government and currently serves as the Chief Deputy Treasurer for Baxter County. Prior to that role, she served as Deputy Treasurer in Marion County. She also facilitates the Financial Intelligence Software Users’ group for Arkansas County Treasurers - the same software currently used by the Marion County Treasurers' office. In addition to her service in county government, she has 25 years of private sector experience as a business owner, bookkeeper, and billing manager. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Western Governors University.

Mueller and her husband of thirty years, Mike, reside in rural Marion County. Two of their three children, along with their spouses and grandchildren, also live in Marion County. She is proud to say that four generations of her family call Marion County home.

Mueller and her family are members of New Hope Baptist Church. Mueller also serves as Treasurer of The Friends of the Marion County Library and is an active member of both the Marion County Republican Party and Republican Women of Marion County, where she serves as the Scholarship Chairwoman. She is a member of the Arkansas County Treasurer’s Association.

“I am excited to announce my candidacy and honored to run for the position of Marion County Treasurer,” said Mueller. “My priority will always be serving the citizens of Marion County. I will operate the county treasury with honesty and integrity, ensuring the county's financial information is transparent, accurate, and easily accessible to all taxpayers. My goal is to maintain the economic health of Marion County by responsibly managing public funds and being a trusted steward of taxpayer money”.

Mueller respectfully asks for your support and your vote in the March 3, 2026, Republican Primary Election for Marion County Treasurer.

MARION COUNTY COLLECTOR

SHARI SHARP

Uncontested

Shari Sharp has announced her candidacy for Marion County Collector, citing her background in financial management and a desire to serve the public.Sharp currently serves as Chief Deputy Collector and has worked in the Collector’s Office since November 2021. In her announcement, Sharp emphasized her commitment to transparency, efficiency, and fairness in the tax collection process.”The Collector’s role is vital to every citizen,” Sharp said. “I will strive to make the tax collection process as straightforward and fair as possible.”

The Marion County Collector is responsible for collecting property taxes and ensuring those funds are distributed to support schools, emergency services, infrastructure and other public needs.

Sharp said she plans to focus on improving communication with residents and making the tax process more accessible.

“I want to earn your trust and your vote,” she said. “If elected, I promise to uphold the values that make our community strong.”

Sharp is expected to meet with voters in the coming weeks as she launches her campaign.