Seven Greene County citizens formally entered races for countywide office Tuesday on day one of the filing period.
It was the same day primary candidates in all Missouri counties could file, as well as for statewide office and U.S. Congress, which will be decided by voters in August.
In Greene County, the field so far mostly includes current political office holders, all of whom are Republican.
Rep. Lincoln Hough (R-Springfield), who represents District 135, is seeking the second district seat for the Greene County Commission. The seat is currently held by Roseann Bentley, who will retire at the end of this term. District 1 Commissioner Harold Bengsch is seeking re-election.
Jim C. Arnott, who has served as Greene County Sheriff since being elected to the position in 2008, is seeking a third term.
Current Greene County Assessor Jim Kessinger is seeking re-election. He will be challenged in the primary election by Steven Kimmey.
Current Greene County Treasurer Justin Hill has filed.
Lee Ann Walker, a family lawyer in Springfield, filed to run for the office of Greene County Public Administrator.
Ballot placement on the first day is determined by a number drawing. Candidates draw numbers out of a hat to determine where their name will be placed. This is done to avoid candidates lining up overnight to be first in line, according to the Greene County Clerk’s office.
All candidates who file after the first day are placed on the ballot on a first come, first serve basis.
The ballot order will be released on March 29, the final day to file. Statewide primaries will be held on August 2, with the General Election taking place on Nov. 8.
Meanwhile, 335 citizens made their candidacy official in Jefferson City on Tuesday, filing to run for public office in Missouri, including for governor.