Candidate Filings Set the Stage for Local Races Across Western Oklahoma

The Penny News 1254

Western OK — Candidate filings have wrapped up across western Oklahoma, setting the stage for several contested races while leaving many positions decided due to a lack of opposition.

Across the region, a mix of contested and uncontested races will appear on upcoming ballots.

In Custer County, the only contested county race will be for District 1 Commissioner, where incumbent Wade Anders will face challenger Jeremiah Trent, who filed just ahead of the deadline. Other county offices are already decided, with District 3 Commissioner Lyle Miller, Assessor Brad Rennels, and Treasurer Janet Roulet all running unopposed.

At the state level, local representation is also largely settled. Anthony Moore, Speaker Pro Tempore of the Oklahoma House, will retain his seat without opposition, and Nick Archer will continue representing House District 55 for another two-year term after also drawing no challenger.

The only contested state-level race affecting the area will be in State Senate District 26. Jessica Winegeart, Rick Koch, and Brady Butler have all filed and will compete in the June 16 primary election.

Beckham County will see one of the more competitive local races, with three candidates, Lonnie Risenhoover, Butch Goldesberry, and Drake McKennon, filing for County Commissioner District 1. Jonathan Levi Beck has filed for County Assessor, while Jennifer Drury filed for County Treasurer.

Washita County also features multiple contested races. For Commissioner District 1, Matthew Misak, Chris Shields, and Bart Gossen have filed. In District 3, Greg Chandler and Floyd King will compete. Sherry Nightengale has filed for County Treasurer.

In Roger Mills County, filings include a contested race for Commissioner District 1 between Mike Bagzis and Rusty Conard Miller. Monty Denney has filed for Commissioner District 3, while Dana Barton is filed for County Assessor and Cassie Drake for County Treasurer.

With filings now complete, attention turns to the June 16 primary election, where several of these contested races will be decided.

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© Copyright 2026, Paragon Communications. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.