With the primary election season in full swing, the Jackson Lions Club became the center of local political discussion on Saturday.
The Lions Club hosted a meet-and-greet from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 7 and offered candidates and voters the opportunity to interact and ask questions.
The event was well attended by local voters and more than two dozen office-seekers set up information tables.
One attendee said that the “event offered a relaxed atmosphere, allowing Breathitt County residents to speak directly with those asking for their votes.”
The Lions Club provided a warm welcome for attendees, serving a hearty breakfast to early arrivals before switching to a traditional lunch of soup beans and cornbread.
The race for County Judge Executive saw a strong showing, with candidates Hargis Epperson, Vicie Pelfry, and Tim Spencer all present to discuss their visions for the county’s future. Meanwhile, the contest for County Attorney was represented by incumbent Brendan Miller and challenger Douglas Holbrook.
In the County Clerk’s race, Ashley Barnett and Ryan Chaney both maintained large, consistent crowds around their tables, signaling high interest in the race.
Law enforcement was also a major concern for voters. Sheriff candidates Mike Wolfe and former Sheriff Ray Clemons spent the afternoon shaking hands and answering questions.
The race for Breathitt County Coroner features a crowded field of eight candidates this year. Three of those contenders, George Turner, Miranda Stidham, and Jason Hall, attended to share their qualifications for the office.
A diverse group of magistrate candidates also utilized the event to reach constituents, including John Marshall, Roy Herald, J. L. Smith, Justin Hollon, and Jeremy Pelfrey. Additionally, PVA candidates Jeff Allen and David Turner were on hand to discuss property valuation issues.
The event wasn't limited to county-level seats.
State Senator Brandon Smith drew a large audience to his table throughout the day, while Congressional candidate Kevin Smith also attended, taking the opportunity to speak with local voters about federal issues impacting the region.
Several candidates whose names will appear on the General Election Ballot in the fall also attended, including Laura Thomas and Jarrett Hardin.
By providing a venue for open dialogue and good food to boot, the Jackson Lions Club helped connect the voters with those seeking to serve them. As the May primary approaches (now just sixty-eight days away), Saturday’s gathering brought the community one step closer to making an informed decision at the ballot box.
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