The Party Primary Elections are a month away, and races are heating up in the area. Early voting in person begins Feb. 18, and will continue thru Feb. 28. Also, the deadline to request a ballot by mail is February 21, and remember a photo ID will be required for voting in person.

In Shelby County, there are two locally contested races in the Democratic Primary; and five in the Republican Primary.

In the Democratic primary, the commissioner Pct. 4 race has incumbent Bradley Allen challenged by Howard Sparks; and in the Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 Democratic Primary, Shonda Clifton goes up against Jenny L. Hicks.

As for the Republican Party primary, the Shelby County judges’ race has incumbent Rick Campbell receiving a challenge from County Clerk Allison Harbison. In the county treasurer’s primary, it’s Ann Blackwell and Joan Rodgers; the Justice of the Peace Pct. 1 Republican primary is a three-way race, with William Eddins, Melissa Crouch and Barbara Scates vying for the position; JP Pct. 2 pits Marla Denby and Mark E. Swift; and in Justice of the Peace Pct. 5 Republican primary, T. Lee Williams is challenged by Mike Crouch.

In San Augustine County, there’s one contested race, that being in the Republican Primary for County Commissioner Pct. 4. Candidate include, Steve Bryan, Joe Hanks, Jim Sower and David McKatherine.

The Center Broadcasting Political Calendar is underway, if you’re a candidate and haven’t contacted us about having your name included call our business office at 598-3304.