News : Primary Season: First Candidates file to be on the June 2nd Primary Ballot

Bethany Hantz turns in her paperwork to be a candidate on the Primary Ballot. Pictured with Deputy Auditor, Gina Edler

The first candidate for the June 2, 2026 primary election ballot was Bethany Hantz. She filed her paperwork with the Benton County Auditor's Office bright and early on Monday morning, the first day that papers could be submitted. She will now be one of the candidates on the Republican ticket to run for Benton County Supervisor.

Hantz said that she believes public office is built on trust and that elected officials must operate with openness and accountability. She added that during her time on the Vinton City Council, "she worked to represent constituents faithfully, make principled decisions, and keep the public informed."

She grew up knowing the value of a dollar and wants to bring that practical budgeting experience to the position. She plans to pull not only from her family life, but as a businesswoman, and from her time in public service. She said that along with emphasizing careful spending, her other priorities will be "prioritizing essential services, reducing waste, and pursuing meaningful property tax relief so the county government operates within its means."

Defending property rights as well as focusing on strengthening ethical leadership with be two other priorities. Hantz said that she believes "public office is built on trust and that elected officials must operate with openness and accountability." She plans to continue meeting with residents across the county in the months ahead to share her vision and listen to voter concerns.

Candidates that have filed so far today include:

County Board of Supervisors

Tim Bird, (R)

Bethany Hantz (R)

Treasurer

Melinda Schoettmer (R)

Recorder

County Attorney

Ray Lough (R)

Those who would like to be on the ballot to fill open seats in November must submit their paperwork between Monday, March 2, 2026, and March 20th at 5:00 p.m.

To vote in the primary election, you need to be registered as a Democrat or Republican to help select each party's candidate for the November ballot. (After election day, you can change it again if you'd like.) Residents should register to vote before May 18, 2026. If you are not registered, you can still vote on election day, but you will need to show your ID and bring a couple of other forms of proof of residence like your utility bills.

To register to vote, click on this link Iowa Online Voter Registration if you aren't sure if you're registered, click HERE.

A special note to ALL Benton County Candidates.

Candidates from both parties are welcome to send in an article around May 17th complete with a photo or photos and share with the county a bit about yourself, perhaps why you got into politics, and why you feel you're the best candidate for the position that you are running for. 

Email to: Vintontoday@hotmail.com