Columbus 2026 Elections Take Shape with Early Field of Mayoral and Council Contenders

With fewer than 110 days before qualifying begins, the 2026 Columbus municipal elections are already drawing significant interest. Six candidates have announced bids for mayor, and eight others are seeking seats on the Columbus City Council. The qualifying period is set for March 2–6, 2026.

According to Nancy Boren, Director of Elections and Registration the following individuals are the only candidates that have qualified. On the mayoral ballot, former City Manager Isaiah Hugley has emerged as a high-profile contender following his controversial termination earlier this year. Also running is Mark LaJoye, a perennial candidate who has previously sought the Muscogee County sheriff’s post five times.

Two first-time political hopefuls—Steven Kelly and Jaketra Bryant—have launched their inaugural campaigns for public office. They are joined by seated council members stepping into the mayoral arena: District 7 Councilor JoAnne Cogle, now in her second year of service, and District 1 Councilor Byron Hickey, who was appointed in 2024 after the death of longtime Councilor Jerry “Pops” Barnes.

In the Columbus City Council races, Barnes’ daughter Simi Barnes is running to represent District 1, with Karen Gaskins, a former police officer, also campaigning for the seat.

Elsewhere on the ballot, Christopher Kelley, who serves as District Deputy Director and field representative for U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop, has entered the district 7 race.
For the District 9 At-Large seat, three candidates have declared:

·       Dr. Cathy Cook, a local dentist and entrepreneur

·       Dr. Rocky Marsh, a Department of Defense budget analyst at Fort Benning

·       John Van Doorn, former chairman of the Muscogee County Democratic Party

In addition, Attorney Robert Wadkins Jr. has announced his intention to challenge for the seat currently held by embattled incumbent Charmaine Crabb.

With several months remaining before qualifying opens, political observers say the field is likely to grow. Many view the 2026 races as a potential turning point that could usher in a new era of leadership for Columbus.

Voters across Muscogee County are encouraged to stay engaged, attend upcoming candidate forums, and closely follow developments ahead of the March qualifying deadline. Check your voter status at www.mvp.sos.ga.gov