LOOGOOTEE, Ind. — Martin County voters headed to the polls Tuesday, May 5, delivering decisive results in key federal, state, and local races during Indiana’s 2026 primary election. With unofficial totals reported shortly after polls closed at 6 p.m. EDT, a total of 2,518 ballots were cast in Martin County, reflecting steady but modest turnout typical of a non-presidential primary year.
In the Republican primary for Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, State Senator Mark Messmer emerged as the clear frontrunner, capturing 1,616 votes across the county, winning that election. Messmer’s lead solidifies his position as the party’s candidate heading into the November general election.
On the Democratic side, Mary Allen led with 164 votes, outpacing her primary opponents Tabitha Zeigler and Christopher Rector, who garnered 94 and 41 votes respectively. Allen’s performance in Martin County aligns with her strong showings in neighboring Daviess and Dubois counties.
The race for Indiana State Representative District 63 was marked by a strong showing from Republican Amy Kippenbrock, who secured 1,352 votes to Richard Moss’s 549. In the Democratic contest, Tiffanie Arthur led with 183 votes, followed by Anthony Bolen with 70 and Adam Mann with 56. These results reinforce the district’s Republican lean while highlighting competitive Democratic engagement despite lower turnout.
Local offices saw incumbents and new contenders alike secure nominations. In the race for Martin County Sheriff, incumbent Republican Keith D. Keller received 1,645 votes to challenger Jonah L. Shaw’s 468. Julie Fithian was unopposed for Clerk of the Circuit Court, collecting 1,756 votes. For Assessor, Carolyn S. McGuire ran unopposed and received 1,743 votes.
Among county council races, Jordan Robert Berry led District 1 with 426 votes, while Jimmy Ray Hamby Jr., Monty L. Gregory, and Sheri Bowling topped the tallies in Districts 2, 3, and 4, respectively. In township contests, James “Bub” Brown secured the Republican nomination for Center Township Trustee with 298 votes, and Cathy Evans, Matthew Sullivan, and Norma J. Baker claimed the three board seats.
Democratic participation remained subdued in many local contests, with several offices lacking filed candidates. In state and federal races, however, Democratic candidates fielded competitive campaigns, as indicated by vote totals in contested primaries.
Voter turnout in Martin County was consistent with expectations for a primary, and election officials reported smooth operations across precincts. Results once remained unofficial until certified by the county election board, but we, according to information we have received, believe the results are final in Martin County at this time, we will keep you updated on that.