Seven Uncontested Races Round Out Blackford County Primary Ballot

The Hartford City News-Times confirmed the full Republican primary ballot for Blackford County on April 29, revealing seven uncontested races alongside two contested primaries.

Seven Republican candidates are running without opposition on the May 5 primary ballot: J.D. Prescott for State Representative, Jim Heflin for Blackford County Sheriff, Jeff Whetzel for County Council District 1, Heather Scaggs for County Council District 2, Kyle Lechien for County Council District 4, Lisa Flint Simmons for County Auditor, and Sheila Hyer for County Assessor.

The two contested races remain County Council District 3, where incumbent Patrick Cale faces challenger Deb Grider, and the County Prosecutor race between Joelle Freiburger and Aaron M. Henderson.

Early voting continues at the Blackford County Courthouse on weekdays through May 4 at noon. Saturday voting is available May 2 from 8 a.m. to noon at the courthouse and the Montpelier Civic Center. Election Day polls open May 5 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

With most races uncontested, the County Council District 3 and County Prosecutor primaries are the key decisions for Blackford County Republican voters on Tuesday — see our full voter guide for details on every race.

Source: Hartford City News-Times — "Voters Will Make Choices Tuesday" (April 29, 2026)