The local Republican ballot for the May primary election will feature several contested races across key county offices.

Among the most closely watched contests is the race for Knox County Commissioner District 3. Two Republican candidates have filed to run for the seat currently held by Kellie Streeter. Streeter is not seeking re-election and has instead launched a campaign for State Representative.

The Republican candidates vying for the District 3 commissioner seat are Matt Hoffman and County Council member Rich Chattin.

The Knox County Sheriff’s race is also shaping up to be competitive. Sheriff Doug Vantlin is completing the second of his two terms and is not running again. Two Republican deputies have filed to run for the office: John Fuller and Dan Short. Others have announced their candidacy but as of this newscast had not yet filed.

Additional contested races appear on the Republican ballot for County Recorder, County Assessor, and County Council District 3.

At this time, there are no contested races for county offices on the local Democratic primary ballot.

The deadline for candidates to file for the May primary election is February 6.