The 2026 election season is officially heating up in Knox County, and voters in the Seventh District now have another Republican stepping forward to serve. We welcome the campaign of Buddy Burkhardt, Republican candidate for Knox County Commissioner, Seventh District.
Local races matter. County Commission is where many of the decisions are made that most directly affect our daily lives—taxes, roads, schools, growth, public safety, and how our county government operates. It’s encouraging to see citizens willing to step up, put their name on the ballot, and offer themselves for public service. That takes commitment, thick skin, and a genuine desire to make a difference.
Buddy Burkhardt brings both public service and party leadership experience to the race. He is retired from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, where he served in Information Technology, and he is the Immediate Past Chairman of the Knox County Republican Party. Burkhardt previously served as Party Chairman from 2015 to 2019, giving him years of experience working with grassroots Republicans, candidates, and local issues.
The Republican primary will be held Tuesday, May 5, 2026, with Early Voting running from April 15 through April 30. That gives voters plenty of opportunity to study the candidates, hear their ideas, and decide who they believe will best represent the Seventh District on County Commission.
As the campaign unfolds, voters should be listening closely:
Who has a real plan for responsible growth?
Who understands the importance of fiscal responsibility?
Who will stand up for taxpayers and keep county government accountable and transparent?
Elections are about choices, and competitive primaries are healthy for the party and for the county. We look forward to seeing Buddy Burkhardt make his case to Republican voters in the Seventh District and to a spirited, issues-focused campaign season.
Mark your calendars: Early Voting April 15–30 and Primary Day Tuesday, May 5, 2026. The future direction of Knox County is shaped by those who show up and vote.
