Why They’re Running: Local Candidates Respond To Harrodsburg Herald Voter Survey
April Ellis
Herald Staff
The primary election happens Tuesday, May 19. Voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballots for one of multiple candidates in four local races. In three races candidates are contending for the Republican nomination: Mercer County sheriff, Mercer County District 4 magistrate and the Mercer County jailer. Two candidates are contending for the Democratic nomination for the 55th district for state house of representatives. Candidates are also contending for the Republican and Democratic nominations for the 6th congressional district, for the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The Harrodsburg Herald reached out to the local primary candidates with a questionnaire. Below are the responses we received.
Mercer County Sheriff
For the office of sheriff, Chief Deputy Sean Brown and Dep. Paul W. Parks are running for the Republican nomination while Tim Gambrel is running unopposed for the Democratic nomination.
Chief Dep. Sean Brown
Sean Brown is a 2002 graduate of Harrodsburg High School and a 2009 graduate from the Department of Criminal Justice (DOCJT).
What experiences qualify you for the office you are running for?
Brown: I feel that my whole journey with the sheriff’s office has prepared me for this position. I have held every position the sheriff’s office has to offer except for sheriff. I started out with dispatching when I was 19-20 years old. From there, I worked as a bailiff at the courthouse, providing court security. I then went to the police academy (DOCJT) in 2009, where I graduated and became a certified peace officer. After graduation, I returned to the sheriff’s office and became a deputy working the road. I was a K9 handler with my partner, “Charlie,” and we worked numerous drug investigations, with several cases resulting in federal court sentences. I was then promoted to sergeant, where I oversaw all patrol activities, and then came the position I currently hold. I’ve been the chief deputy for the last two years. As second in command of the sheriff’s office, I have had the opportunity to learn all of the administrative responsibilities of the sheriff as well. Administrative things like making the budget, making sure we stay within the budget, collecting taxes, vehicle inspections, and tending to the other day-to-day operations of the sheriff’s office. I feel these experiences have prepared me, and I am ready and confident to hold the final position on the ladder and become your next sheriff of Mercer County.
What improvements or changes would you hope to see if elected?
Brown: One of the biggest improvements I would like to address as sheriff is mental health. We see more and more cases now that involve persons experiencing a mental health crisis. Although all of our deputies have received some training in dealing with these incidents, there are not many options or resources we can offer these individuals. Deputy Shewmaker and I attended a community mapping workshop on mental health a few weeks ago, where we met with multiple groups and agencies to discuss the rise in these events and the resources available. It was alarming to realize how limited our resources and options were. After the first meeting, we were given so many resources that we had no idea were even available to us. With that being said, we have another meeting set for May 7. We are in the process of launching a new crisis response team, similar to the ones used by Boyle County and Lexington Paramedicine. We have members of law enforcement, fire, EMS, counselors and mental health professionals who could respond depending on the circumstances. Not every person who is experiencing a mental health episode needs to go to jail. We have seen an uptick in veterans experiencing these episodes, so we now have more contacts with the VA to better help and treat these individuals.
Drugs are the root of most of the problems we see. I think most crimes committed in this county are in some form connected to drugs, and there is no permanent solution to end drug use and sales in this community. I do think we can at least make them think really hard if they want to try to sell to our youth and citizens. We do have a K9 unit at the sheriff’s office, and now that we are fully staffed, I want to reinstate a drug unit. We have many partners we have worked with to combat this, and I feel now is the time to rekindle those relationships. We have worked with the Kentucky State Police, DEA, HPD and ATF in cases here locally. So, we do have the resources available to make this happen.
I also want to improve pay for the deputies and office staff. I have spoken to several departments in the surrounding area about how their pay scales work. So, I would like to implement a pay scale based on years of service so that more tenured officers are not starting at entry-level pay.
Another issue we are seeing more frequently is domestic violence. I know that we can’t prevent or predict when a domestic violence event is going to occur, but I do think it is something that could be looked into. We have the same individuals who continue to violate the EPO over and over and can just bond out at the courthouse without going to jail, and then go right back and violate it again. That makes the victim feel unsafe and sometimes unwilling to file a complaint, believing it will do no good.
Why should people vote for you?
Brown: We have had one of the greatest sheriffs in the state for the last 16 years, and those are some huge shoes to fill. But Sheriff Kelty has trusted me in leadership and supervisory positions. I was endorsed and recommended by Sheriff Kelty to succeed him, and that’s why I placed in those positions for this very reason, and that is to keep this office functioning smoothly and at a high level after this election. We have worked hard to make improvements to this office to ensure a smooth transition. As a Christian conservative, I’m not going to promise things that you and I both know are not possible just to get a vote.
But I will promise you that I will work just as hard as Sheriff Kelty has. Being sheriff is not just a title; it’s not just about law enforcement, it’s about being available, being in the school, being at ballgames, being at community events, going to calls with your guys and gals, and being a friend.
You can not have a successful office without a great team around you. We have assembled a team of great deputies who will continue to work hard and make this county proud.
I was able to work with the fiscal court and bring hazardous duty retirement to the office for the first time. Which is an important tool for recruiting and retention.
That, along with my nearly 20 years of experience and knowledge of the sheriff’s office’s inner workings, I feel I am ready to lead this county for many years to come. So, I humbly ask for your vote as your next sheriff of Mercer County on Tuesday, May 19.
Any additional information for the voters?
Brown: I would also like to thank my wife and family for being by my side for every step of this process. I would also like to thank all the citizens who have supported me with signs, donations, calls, text, letters and emails.
Candidate Paul Parks did not submit a response.
Mercer County Jailer
Candidates Bryan Cheak and Garland Christopher are vying for the Republican nomination for the open office of jailer.
Bryan Cheak
Bryan Cheak is a graduate of Harrodsburg High School and Clear Creek Baptist College.
What experiences qualify you for the office you’re running for?
Cheak: Years in the private security sector have given me the unique ability to deal with people in various conditions. From individuals being under the influence of drugs and narcotics, assault, medical emergencies, and so on. I currently hold over 60 security-related certifications. Things like de-escalation techniques, bomb threats, medical emergencies and active shooters, just to name a few. I am currently the director of security for the state’s largest event venue, located in Louisville. I manage a team of 15-40 highly trained security officers.
What improvements or changes would you hope to see if elected?
Cheak: My heart is to help our citizens recognize that every person matters. Those individuals who are incarcerated matter and are loved by someone. They are someone’s husband or wife, son or daughter, brother or sister. In other words, their life matters. Most of all, they matter to Christ, and therefore they matter to me. We will uphold the letter of the law, but will do it by showing dignity and respect to every person.
Why should people vote for you?
Cheak: My faith is in Jesus, and my worth is found in Him. I’m asking my fellow citizens to allow me the opportunity to show the love that Jesus showed me to those who may not know him. My prayer is that we can break the cycle of addiction, abuse, alcohol, and brokenness by loving people. I am a Ronald Reagan Christian conservative, and my family roots go back well over one hundred years in Mercer County. My great-uncle Edwin “Skip” Rue was a military hero in WWII and my great-grandmother Rue was Life Magazine’s Woman of the Year circa 1945.
My oldest son is a decorated combat veteran, and my youngest son spent a decade working with adults with special needs.
My wife of 44 years, Cherlynn Cheak, is a nurse at St. Joseph’s in Lexington and has been helping people for decades. My family is about love and service. If the citizens of Mercer County want a jailer with character and integrity who loves people and wants to restore broken families, then I humbly ask for your vote.
Any additional information for the voters?
Cheak: As your jailer, it is my mission to love people. My prayer is that one day, when my time ends, people will come to my family and tell them that I helped them change their lives and find Jesus. Ultimately, it is to stand before the Lord and to have Him evaluate my life and my work and hear Him say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Let’s change Mercer County by changing lives.
The next candidate for jailer is Garland Christopher, a graduate of Henry Clay High School in Lexington, along with
Garland Christopher
college and multiple certifications.
What experiences qualify you for the office you’re running for?
Christopher: I have 48 years in law enforcement and corrections in local, state and federal offices. I spent nine years in the Fayette County Detention Center and one year in the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department. For 24 years, I worked for the U.S. Department of Justice in the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Since 2012, I have worked in the Mercer County Sheriff’s department, and since November, I have been a jailer transport officer. My 48 years of service have taught me how to handle prisoners with dignity and respect.
What improvements or changes would you hope to see if elected?
Christopher: Since we do not have a jail, I would like to improve training for transport officers to enhance safety and efficiency for them and the prisoners. I would like to provide 24-hour a day, 7-day a week transport for prisoners.
Why should people vote for you?
Christopher: The office of a jailer is a serious job when dealing with people who are under arrest and being moved from different counties. My experience working with people from all walks of life and transporting well over 1,000 prisoners—ranging from misdemeanor to death penalty cases—makes me the ideal person for this job.
Any additional information for the voters?
Christopher: I’ve been in public services for my entire adult life, and I am very proud of my service. I’ve treated people with dignity and respect in all I’ve done.
District 4 Magistrate
The candidates are Susan Barrington and Donald Cocanougher.
Magistrate Susan Barrington, the incumbent, is a 1973 graduate of Burgin High School and a 1977 graduate of the
Magistrate Susan Barrington
University of Kentucky.
What experiences qualify you for the office you’re running for?
Barrington: I was the park superintendent of Old Fort Harrod State Park for 20 years. Administered, implemented, managed and directed all park operations. Supervised 20 plus employees annually, administered the budget and was the purchasing agent. Gift shop buyer, maintenance supervision, and developed historical interpretation in the museum. Created the Living History Program inside the fort and organized and implemented all events and activities at the park.
I served as a child protective services worker, foster care worker and juvenile probation officer for the Bureau for Social Services and was a Surgical Social Worker at the UK hospital.
I was a crime victim advocate at the Mercer District Criminal Court.
For four years, I have served as magistrate of District 4. During my tenure, there have been four culvert replacements in District 4: Oakwood Estates, A.T. Dean Road and Handy Road.
Road re-surfacing projects have included: Ashley Camp Road and Bradshaw Lane. KY House Bill 76 recently approved re-surfacing for Shawnee Run Road and Handy Road in 2026-27. I actively and tirelessly fought for the Solar Ordinance that helped protect District 4 from industrial solar development on prime farmland.
Advocated to state and local officials for signage on Highway 152 between Burgin and Harrodsburg in an area prone to accidents and advocated for a reduced speed limit on county roads.
Provided relief efforts after the 2025 flooding disaster.
Fiscal court advocated for Industrial Park land and secured $19.9 million in grant money. Advocated for emergency services, including negotiating new EMS contracts for serving Mercer Countians. Advocated for hazardous pay for the Sheriff Department. Re-negotiated contract for inmate housing, cutting monthly expenses in half. Property tax rates have been lowered. Advocated for a new animal shelter and director. Advocated for the renovation of the Anderson Dean pool.
What improvements or changes would you hope to see if elected?
Barrington: Serving as a magistrate, I will work with the fiscal court as we continue to promote responsible industrial development, job growth in Mercer County, and always emphasize fiscal responsibility.
Our growth in Mercer County should always be very deliberate and thoughtful. As Magistrate for District 4, I will specifically continue to advocate for county road improvements.
Why should people vote for you?
Barrington: The fiscal court is the legislative and administrative governing body for Mercer County. I have decades of proven leadership in the community and District 4. Serving as your Magistrate is not “just a job.” It is a calling to be a good and effective public servant.
I am qualified. I am respected. I am responsible. I am committed. I am decisive. I am an excellent communicator and decision-maker. I possess critical thinking, discernment, and I am District 4’s skilled, trusted, and experienced leader on the fiscal court.
I fight to preserve our farmland! I am a strong advocate for farmland and environmental conservation and preservation. Farmland is a highly valuable and irreplaceable resource. I advocate protecting our farmland.
I have many serious concerns regarding a data center on District 4 farmland: land, livestock, agriculture, physical and mental health, water, air, and soil pollution, Infrastructure, utility costs, animals and wildlife, community, and traffic.
I vote my constituents. I am your voice. I am your advocate. I get the job done! My record speaks!
My leadership roles in the community include: Citizens Bank and Trust Company Board of Directors, Farmers National Bank Advisory Board of Directors (current), Salvation Army Board of Directors, Rotary Club of Harrodsburg (first female president), Mercer Transformation Board of Directors, Pioneer Playhouse Board of Directors, Ragged Edge Theatre Board of Directors, Haggin Hospital Capital Campaign committee member, Burgin 150th Celebration Steering Committee (current)
Any additional information for the voters?
Barrington: Burgin is my home and I know District 4 like the back of my hand.
I am a fourth-generation from Burgin, and live on a family farm in District 4. We raised cattle, and grew corn and tobacco over the years. Our daughter was raised on the family farm. Now, she and her family also call the farm home.
My parents were pillars in the community. Both have been honored by the Burgin School. They taught me, and lived by example, devoting their lives to serving God, family and community. These values have guided me throughout my life. Mama was a teacher, Burgin historian and community leader. Daddy was a banker, volunteer fireman, and a Kentucky National Guardsman. For years, Mama and I shared Burgin history to 4th graders at Burgin School. Now, I carry on this tradition and her legacy.
My family are active members of the Carpenters Christian Church. I teach Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, serve on the grounds crew, and deliver Backpacks weekly. I play the piano for residents at The Willows.
I am a 41-year cancer survivor.
Please follow the RE-ELECT Susan Barrington for Magistrate District #4 Facebook page.
55th District State House of Representatives
The candidates for the Democratic nomination to face incumbent Rep. Kim King in November’s General Election are Nathan Saucedo and Katrina Sexton.
Nathan Saucedo has a masters of social work, and is a liscensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a licensed alcohol
Nathan Saucedo
and drug counselor.
What experiences qualify you for the office you’re running for?
Saucedo: With over 30 years of experience as a licensed medical provider, I have extensive expertise in billing and navigating Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance systems. For more than two decades, I have also served in senior leadership roles, managing inpatient psychiatric hospitals and community mental health centers. Currently, I serve as an executive within a community mental health center in Kentucky, where I remain actively involved in shaping policy and care delivery. My work extends beyond administration into public service, including participation in state and judicial initiatives focused on mental health and child welfare. I have been appointed by the governor to serve on the Heritage Council and to continue engaging in community leadership efforts across the 55th District. My career has been dedicated to improving access to care, strengthening healthcare and educational systems, and advocating for vulnerable populations across the Commonwealth.
What improvements or changes would you hope to see if elected?
Saucedo: As an elected official, it would be my sole responsibility to amplify the voices of the constituents of the 55th District. I am committed to holding regular town halls and community forums to better understand our people’s needs and ensure their concerns are heard and acted upon. My focus will be on expanding access to quality healthcare, increasing affordable housing options, and addressing the rising cost of living that affects working families every day. I believe in a practical, solutions-driven approach that brings people to the table: providers, families, and community leaders, to create meaningful and lasting change. Additionally, I will work to strengthen our local economy by supporting small businesses and preserving family-owned farms. These farms are the backbone of our communities, and I will advocate for policies that help families maintain ownership of their land without being overwhelmed by financial burdens.
Why should people vote for you?
Saucedo: I bring a strong ethical foundation in business and have dedicated much of my life to advocating for those in need, supporting individuals and families during some of the most vulnerable and difficult times in their lives. As your representative, I will work tirelessly for the people of the 55th District to ensure every constituent has a voice in their government. I believe decisions should be made by communities themselves—not imposed upon them. I also believe in accountability and responsible leadership. That’s why I have signed a term-limits pledge: public service should always remain focused on the people, not on holding power.
Any additional information for the voters?
Saucedo: I believe open communication and accessibility are essential to effective leadership. Every constituent deserves to be heard and to have direct access to their representative. For too long, I feel our district has lacked the level of representation it truly deserves. As a representative, personal beliefs, politics, and individual preferences should not be what drive decision-making. The responsibility is to advocate for the people—listening first, and acting in their best interest. Government should reflect the will of the community, not the other way around. People before party!
Katrina Sexton is a 1998 graduate of Mercer County High School and a 2000 graduate of St. Catharine College. In
Katrina Sexton
addition, she earned an associate of arts in history degree in 2004, a masters of education—K12 gifted/talented education in 2012, and a doctor of education—policy and educational leadership in 2016, all from Eastern Kentucky University.
What experiences qualify you for the office you’re running for?
Sexton: My qualifications stem from my education, volunteer work and career. Prior experience includes service as a local elected official for two terms on the Burgin City Council and later for two terms on the Burgin Independent School Board. In addition, my experience in research and policy, through educational research in history, politics, and governance, is highly relevant to the office of state representative. Additional experiences that qualify me for the office sought include: 15 years of experience in public education in K-12 and college/university settings; serving as an administrator at the university level; and casework in community-based services, where I worked closely with vulnerable populations. Since 2013, I have continued to serve as a volunteer advocate and authorized representative for individuals needing help navigating the healthcare marketplace, assisting parents/guardians with the foster care and child protective services systems, and serving as a trainer for the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
Furthermore, I have served on various community boards and served as an elected officer for different non-profits and churches. In many of the roles I have held, my responsibilities have included working directly with the public and overseeing budgets, as well as administration, grant writing, disbursements, state/federal financial reporting/audits, and much more. Lastly, my certifications are focused on U.S. History, American government, social sciences, policy, and leadership. My volunteer work, advocacy roles, and teaching roles are all applicable to the office for which I am running, as well as my 20-year experience helping my husband manage his local small business to maintain compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. At 45 years old, my experiences and qualifications are varied and extensive, ranging from continuing to serve as a public servant in the local community to central Kentucky.
What improvements or changes would you hope to see if elected?
Sexton: The 55th district (Mercer, Washington and Jessamine Counties) is a central part of rural Kentucky with a more agriculturally suburban atmosphere. Our focus should center on small businesses and the agricultural economy. We need to work on maintaining our current industry and growing from this sector. In addition, we should work on developing our tourism since we have a deep-rooted history within the Commonwealth. Attracting businesses that fit into the atmosphere and existing environment while protecting our history is vital. Areas of growth may include lodging/hotels, dining and entertainment. The 55th district has areas that could be updated or expanded to meet these needs to draw people into the heart of Kentucky.
Why should people vote for you?
Sexton: People should vote for me because we have so much in common. I am a working mom and wife living paycheck to paycheck with the same daily struggles as most people in the community. Washington and Mercer County specifically have been my home for my entire life. Every plan I have ever had for the future of my family or myself, has been, and continues to be, centered on maintaining my home right here—serving others, regardless of any other factors.
Any additional information for the voters?
Sexton: Anyone running for office does not have all of the answers or solutions. Experience coupled with a willingness to work with and for the people is of the utmost importance. I am committed to doing the work to make improvements and incorporate public input to better represent the people of the 55th District to the best of my abilities.
Upcoming Political Forums
Two Political Candidate Forums will be held in Mercer County in May to help voters make informed decisions in the 2026 Primaries.
The first forum will be held Monday, May 11, at 7 p.m. at the Mercer County Cooperative Extension Office (1007 Lexington Road). Candidates for Jailer, 4th District Magistrate, County Sheriff and State Representative for the 55th District have been invited to introduce themselves and answer questions from senior students from Burgin and Mercer County, which have been approved by the Democrat and Republican Chairs.
The second forum will be held on Tuesday, May 12, at 7 p.m. for candidates for the Harrodsburg City Commission.
Citizens may attend in person or listen to Hometown Radio WHBN at 1420 AM or 99.5 FM, or on the Harrodsburg Herald Facebook page.
Important Election Dates
• Register to vote before April 20, for the primary and before Oct. 5, for the general.
• Primary election is May 19;
• Last day to register to vote for the primary is April 20, by 4 p.m.;
• General election is Nov. 3;
• Last day to register or update your registration for the general election is Oct. 5, by 4 p.m.;
• For both elections, Kentucky law generally requires voter registrations to be submitted at least 29 days before Election Day, if registering by mail or online;
• Deadline to change your political party affiliation to vote in the May 2026 primary was Dec. 31, 2025;
• Deadline to file nomination papers for primary candidates was Jan. 9;
• To file for nonpartisan or independent candidates for the Nov. 3, general election is June 2, by 4 p.m.
• To declare as a write-in candidate, the deadline is Aug. 24, by 4 p.m.
• General election is Nov. 3, with polls available 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Absentee Voting Primary Election
• Online mail-in absentee requests is April 4 – May 5.
• Excused in-person absentee voting is May 6–8 and May 11–13.
• No-excuse early in-person voting is May 14–16.
Absentee Voting General Election
• Online mail-in absentee requests is Sept. 19 – Oct . 20.
• Excused in-person absentee voting is Oct. 21–23 and Oct. 26–28.
• No-excuse early in-person voting is Oct. 29–31.
