The Hamilton County Democratic Party said Thursday that four new candidates have filed to run for county office this fall, giving voters contested Democratic choices in several countywide races in a county long dominated by Republicans.
The candidates filed their paperwork Thursday morning at the Hamilton County Clerk’s Office. They are Ti’Gre McNear for Hamilton County Commissioner, District 1; Charles Hollowell for Hamilton County Sheriff; Alexandra Wilson for Hamilton County Clerk; and Doug May for Hamilton County Council, District 3.
“Across Hamilton County, Democratic candidates are stepping forward because they believe our communities deserve thoughtful, accountable leadership and real choices at the ballot box,” said Josh Lowry, chair of the Hamilton County Democratic Party. “The enthusiasm we’re seeing from candidates, volunteers, and voters reflects the momentum building across our county. Every office matters, and we’re proud to offer strong candidates who are committed to serving their neighbors.”
Each Democrat will face a Republican who advanced through the party’s May 5 primary or ran unopposed, in a county where the GOP has held every countywide office for years.
In the race for Commissioner, District 1 — which covers Carmel and Clay Township — McNear will challenge longtime Republican incumbent Christine Altman. Altman was first elected to the board of commissioners in 2003 and previously served on the county council, making her one of the county’s most established officeholders.
For sheriff, Hollowell will face Republican Dustin K. Dixon, a 25-year veteran of the sheriff’s office who won a competitive GOP primary in May, defeating chief deputy John Lowes with about 63 percent of the vote. The seat is open because Republican Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush is term-limited and cannot seek re-election.
In the clerk’s race, Wilson will run against Republican Beth Sheller, who currently serves as Hamilton County Election Administrator and secured the GOP nomination for clerk in the spring primary.
And in County Council, District 3 — which takes in Noblesville, Jackson and White River townships — May will face Republican Mark F. Hall.
The party framed the filings as part of a multi-cycle effort to compete more broadly across Hamilton County. Democrats said they have expanded candidate recruitment, increased volunteer engagement, and built what the party described as a year-round grassroots organization.
Residents interested in volunteering, supporting candidates, or learning more about the 2026 campaign can visit hamcodemsin.org.
The general election is Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.