Columbus 2026 Election Cycle Heats Up as Candidates File to Run

The 2026 election season is gaining momentum in Columbus as candidates begin filing their intent to run for public office. With several high-profile races on the ballot — including the mayoral seat and five of the ten Columbus City Council districts — the coming months are expected to significantly influence the city’s political direction.

Among the most closely watched contests is the race for mayor, where former City Manager Isaiah Hugley has filed his intent to run. Hugley’s anticipated entry into the race has already drawn widespread attention and could dramatically alter the mayoral landscape.

To date, two additional candidates have declared interest in the mayoral race: Mark LaJoye, a perennial candidate who has unsuccessfully run five times for sheriff, and political newcomer Steven Kelly, a local small business owner.

City Council races in Districts 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 are also on the ballot. Two of those — District 1 and the District 9 At-Large seat — are currently held by appointed councilors filling the unexpired terms of the late Jerry “Pops” Barnes and Judy Thomas, respectively. As open seats, both are expected to draw competitive fields.

The following candidates have officially filed:

·       District 1: Simi Barnes, daughter of the late Jerry “Pops” Barnes, who held the seat for more than two decades.

·       District 7: Christopher Kelley, currently serving as District Deputy Director and Field Representative for U.S. Congressman Sanford Bishop.

·       District 9 At-Large: Dr. Cathy Cook, a local dentist and entrepreneur; Dr. Rocky Marsh, a Department of Defense budget analyst at Fort Benning; and John Van Doorn, former chairman of the Muscogee County Democratic Party.

With the qualifying period approaching and more candidates expected to enter the race, political observers say this election could usher in a new era of leadership for Columbus.

Voters across Muscogee County are encouraged to stay informed, attend candidate forums, and participate actively in the electoral process as the 2026 campaign season unfolds.