Willie Oden
Interview Wed, April 29 · 3:00 PM (Election Marathon)
Edited video published.
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— 2026 Hardin County Race —
Hardin County Sheriff
Two Republicans are competing in the May 19 primary for the Republican nomination. The Democratic nominee is unopposed in his primary. The winners face each other on the November general ballot.
About this page. Hardin Local invited every filed candidate in this race to a free 20-minute on-camera interview. Order below is by ballot position. Edited videos are added as they are produced; until then, you'll find a link to the full live broadcast where applicable. Candidates who chose not to participate are still listed so you can see the full ballot.
Republican Primary
Oden vs SankeyBrian Sankey
Democratic Primary
Uncontested · 1 candidateJohn Ward
No primary interview required because the race is uncontested on this side. Returns for general-election coverage in the fall.
What happens after May 19
The winner of the Republican primary faces John Ward (D) in the November 3, 2026 general election. Hardin Local will revisit this race ahead of November — what that looks like depends on the field. Possibilities: a paid follow-up interview for any candidate who wants more airtime, a re-air of the primary interview, or — if both nominees are interested — a head-to-head debate. Either way, voters will hear from both sides.