Meet our Candidates
Below, learn about the Democratic candidates for the Fall 2026 Election Season
Meet The Team
Candidate for State Representative
John Bartlett
John is a lifelong resident of East Central Indiana. He works in IT for a major security hardware manufacturer in Indianapolis. He graduated from Monroe Central High School and Indiana University with a bachelor’s degree in history and political science. He grew up in Randolph County near Albany. Currently, he lives on the farm his grandparents bought 75 years ago just south of Hartford City. His ancestors were among the original settlers of Delaware County in the 1830s, settling the farms between Albany, Desoto, and Selma.
John wants his grandson, Lincoln (Link), to have the opportunity to live on the same farm he lives on. But he sees too many threats to that being a possibility. The economic situation may make it unfeasible for Link to stay in our rural home, as well-paying jobs have left the area.
John feels that we need to strengthen our education system, preserve quality and affordable health care in our rural communities, and build infrastructure such as roads and fiber optic broadband internet to attract businesses with better jobs to locate here.
John will fight for our communities when elected to the legislature. He wants to preserve and improve life for all residents of East Central Indiana. He believes deeply, from what has been handed down to him by his ancestors, that we have a legacy worth preserving.
Candidate for Center Township Trustee Board
Kathy Carey
Carey was born and raised in Muncie and grew up in the "Industry Neighborhood" where she still resides today. Carey is a graduate of Ball State University with a BS in Criminal Justice/Criminology, and has a Master's degree in Business Administration/ Public Administration from the University of Phoenix. She became active in the community in 2005 and since has been appointed to various boards and organizations. She is now serving on the Center Township Trustee Board.
"I desire to continue serving on the Center Township Trustee Board. I love working with the Township Trustee to assist in overseeing that funding is available for those who are in need of assistance and/or services."
Candidate for Trustee's Office of Niles Township
James Clevenger
Mr. Clevenger is a lifelong resident of Albany, Indiana, and Delaware County, married with 2 children and 2 grandchildren. He is a retired Fire Battalion Chief and EMS worker. James Clevenger was appointed the Delaware County Coroner in 2000, and was elected back into the Coroner's office in 2002 and 2006. In 2000, after entering office, he became the first elected Coroner in Delaware County to become a certified Medicolegal Death Investigator. He remained on the Coroner's staff (under Coroner Scott Hahn) from 2010-2018 as a Deputy Coroner and Death Investigator.
"I am running for re-election for the sole purpose of serving the community. Small townships such as ours are essential for property and cemetery maintenance, volunteer fire services and resident assistance when necessary."
Candidate for Indiana Senate
Andrew Dale
Andrew is the principal of Harbinger Coach, LLC, where he provides executive leadership coaching
services to emerging and established professionals, drawing upon his municipal governance, non-
profit and private business experiences, as well as a lifelong commitment to his community through
Civic engagement.
Andrew’s civic interests are focused on organizational leadership, strategic and accessible municipal
governance, endeavors that reduce poverty and help seniors to stay in their homes, and the
positive expansion of economic vitality for communities. Andrew is co-founder and director emeritus of the Shafer Leadership Academy, chairperson of the Delaware County Democratic Party, and serves as president of the Muncie Fire Merit Commission and as a board member of the Whitely Community Council. He attends Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church and serves as an elder and
deacon. As a graduate of Vincennes University and Ball State University, he also holds certificates in leadership coaching from Harvard University’s Continuing Education Division.
“I’m running for Indiana Senate District 26 because I believe the people of Delaware and
Randolph counties deserve to be heard and better served. I’m focused on affordability, public
education, agriculture and rural healthcare, and next-generation opportunities. Simply put, I’m
prepared to do my part to help alleviate the pain points that so many Hoosiers are experiencing
today.”
Candidate for Circut Court Judge
Amanda Dunnuck
Amanda Dunnuck has practiced law in Delaware County for 23 years — 17 as a private attorney and 11 as Muncie City Court Judge, appointed by the Indiana Governor in 2015 and now in her third elected term. A Delta High School, Ball State University, and University of Dayton Law grad, she has experience in civil and criminal trial work, family law mediation, guardianships, and arguing before the Indiana Supreme Court. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and a Juris Doctorate degree. As a judge, she modernized court technology, strengthened due process, and cut the active caseload by over 50%, while hearing more than 8,000 cases a year.
"I’m running for Circuit Court No. 5 Judge because I believe people deserve a judge who
is experienced, fair, and committed to serving everyone who comes into the courtroom
with integrity and respect... I want to
continue ensuring that every person is heard, the law is applied impartially, and justice
is delivered with compassion, accountability, and common sense."
Candidate for Delaware County Council
Michael Durrall
Michael Durall believes we need a bottom-up growth model that focuses on taking care of our current residents. He maintains that only by demonstrating that we can support our existing community will we successfully convince new people and businesses to relocate to Delaware County.
He graduated from Noblesville High School and began a firefighting career in 2008, rising to the rank of Lieutenant in 2022. Outside of work, he actively volunteers his time and skills to support those in need in the community. Looking ahead, he is eager to deepen his involvement in local politics, advocating for enhanced public safety, expanded family resources, and quality educational and union career opportunities within our community.
"I have decided to run for Delaware County Council - District 4 because we are not fully utilizing the resources at our fingertips. Furthermore, when speaking with different communities throughout the county, I consistently hear that people do not feel listened to, represented, or consulted before decisions are made. I want to be their voice."
Candidate for Indiana House
Philip Gift
Phil Gift has spent a number of years as a nurse working with the Veterans Affairs. He has an Associate Degree in Journalism from Vincennes University, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Administrative Management from the University of Cincinnati, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Ball State University.
"I'm running for office because I believe we can build a brighter future for our community. Together, we can create stronger schools, a more vibrant economy, and a safer place to call home. Learn more about my platform and join me in making a difference."
Candidate for Delaware County Clerk
Cameron Grubbs
Cameron Grubbs wants to ensure your Constitutional Rights are preserved, like being able to vote in a safe and secure election. He aims to bring a warmer, more personal, service-based approach to the office while expanding engagement and accessibility to levels the County has not seen. Grubbs wants to bring back marriage services to Delaware County and ensure people are able to marry those they love. He also hopes to build an information network to raise public awareness of notices and benefit Hoosiers in the area.
Grubbs is a veteran of the Indiana National Guard and Army Reserves who has been an advocate for government accountability, transparency and accessibility in Delaware County for years. He has worked in customer service-based jobs and professions for the past 30 years, which will allow him a perspective to listen to both the employees of the Clerk’s office and those who utilize it in order to maximize service.
"I believe in continuous improvement and finding workable solutions. If officials are not working toward better public service, then they are doing a disservice to you and our communities."
Candidate for Indiana House
Sara Gullion
Sara grew up in Hendricks County and graduated from Ball State with a B.S. in
Journalism/Public Relations. She’s lived full-time in Muncie since 2000.
Sara was elected as the District 4 City Councilperson in 2023. Since then, she has championed the citizens of Muncie and has attempted to bring more transparency to city politics. She worked in communications at trade associations in Indianapolis prior to moving to Muncie.
She worked in the International PR Department at GM in Detroit after college and has worked
as a freelance editor. Sara has worked for a law firm in Muncie since 2012. She was an active member of Psi Iota Xi, serving on various committees and as President of both the sorority and its non-profit thrift shop. Sara has been a committed volunteer for Indiana Public Radio and WIPB, serving on its Advisory Board as well as co-hosting local programs.
“I’ve been on Muncie City Council since 2024 and am proud of a lot I’ve been able to do for my
constituents. However, I’ve also realized that many of the issues our community is facing can’t
be solved at the local level. Trying to make inroads on issues like fair wages, housing costs,
high utility bills and attacks on education is a big motivation for this run.”
Candidate for Delaware County Coroner
Scott Hahn
For nearly 40 years, Scott has been a cornerstone of Delaware County's emergency and safety services. Whether serving in EMS, Fire, Rescue, or the Coroner’s office, he has continuously led by example—both by mastering his field and by teaching and empowering others. Driven by a lifelong commitment to learning and mentoring, his enduring dedication has touched the lives of countless individuals and families across the community.
Scott is a Battalion Chief with the Muncie Fire Department and a former two-term Delaware County
Coroner (2010–2018). With over 25 years of experience as a Medicolegal Death Investigator in the state of Indiana, he has investigated more than 3,000 cases (including but not limited to homicide, suicide,
accidental, and natural deaths which were unexpected and/or unwitnessed). A dedicated first
responder, Scott has also been an active Firefighter and EMT since 1987.
"I am running for Delaware County Coroner because our community deserves an office defined by the
highest standards of integrity, transparency, and care. When a family loses a loved one, they need more
than just answers—they need an office that operates with total professionalism and genuine
compassion. As your Delaware County Coroner, my mission is to lead the Delaware County Coroner’s
Office with unwavering compassion and dedicated leadership to every investigation; ensuring that every
death is investigated thoroughly, objectively, and with the deep respect our citizens deserve."
Candidate for Trustee of Salem Township
Jesse Landess
Jesse Landess is currently the co-owner of Landess Farm LLC. The farm has been family-owned since
1931. The primary crops are strawberries, vegetables, and agritourism events such as Fall Fun
on the Farm. Jesse taught history and government for 13 years. He has also been a nursing home administrator and has owned and operated an assisted living home. Jesse has been a member
of the Muncie Delaware County Planning Commission for the past 14 years. Jesse graduated from the University of New Orleans with a Master's in Education Administration.
"I am running for the office of Trustee of Salem Township, Delaware County, because I believe we
need to keep a vibrant two or more-party system alive. Elections are about choices. Each office
should be contested, allowing the voters to select which direction they want to see police
created and implemented."
Candidate for Delaware County Commissioner
Ken Mace
Mace is a lifelong resident of Delaware County, where he lives with his wife of 38 years. He is a graduate of Cowan High School and Ball State University. In 1987, county judges appointed Mace as the Chief Probation Officer of Delaware County Juvenile Court. Later, he also began supervising the adult probation department. After retiring from this in 2019, he served the community at Delta Middle School. He then worked as an investigator in the prosecutor's office. Mace is now running for County Commissioner.
"Farmers, small businessmen, the homeless, people struggling with mental health and addiction, and others who feel like they’ve been 'forgotten', need an advocate. As a commissioner, I will work to restore bipartisan accountability to the board and focus on the needs of the citizens and employees of Delaware County rather than the analytics and micro-management of fellow office holders and elected officials."
Candidate for Center Township Board
Jama McIntosh
Jama McIntosh is a recent retiree of Ball State University, where he worked for over 25 years. While at Ball State, McIntosh served as Vice President of the union and as a union steward. Before Ball State, McIntosh was employed at Borg Warner Automotive
"I am running for office to become more involved in my community. I feel like we need to add a fresh perspective to the board. "
Candidate for Monroe Township Trustee Board
Todd Merickel
Todd Merickel was born in Toledo, Ohio, but has resided in Muncie for almost forty years. He is a graduate of Muncie Northside High School, Ball State University, and Indiana Wesleyan University, where he obtained a Master's Degree in Management. He has been a successful manager of WMDH radio, MITS, and for the last eight years, has been a Regional Account Manager for Mesmerize Transit Advertising. With this successful business background, Merickel hopes to transition to a role where he can better give back to his community.
" I have received very little information about Monroe Township since I moved to my current residence. I feel that better representation can be provided to the residents by keeping them informed."
Candidate for Center Township Board
Michael Miller
Mike Miller is the owner and founder of MGM Marketing, Inc., which has run for forty years, providing vegetables to food processing companies like Campbell Soup Co., Hormel, Del Monte, and snack food makers like Frito-Lay, Grippo Potato Chip Co., and Seyfert’s Foods. Experience in international trading in 11 countries of foodstuffs like dry beans, peas, lentils, and grains. Miller retired from all trading in 2024. He now serves on the Center Township Trustee Board and is running for reelection.
"The Board has accomplished many of the goals, making improvements and repairs to both Mansfield and Chambers Parks. I hope to be on the Board to upgrade playgrounds and playground equipment, as well as providing care for the three Pioneer Cemeteries, with poor relief support always
the priority."
Candidate for Salem Township Board
Florence Mowrey
Florence Mowrey is a lifelong resident of Delaware County, with most of it spent in Daleville-Salem Township Fire Protection Territory. Recently, she has felt that it is time to step up and do more than grumble about government. A graduate from Daleville High School in 1972, Mowrey also holds a degree from Ball State in International Studies.
She has spent 26 years as a volunteer FF and EMT with the Daleville-Salem Township Fire Protection Territory. Fire and EMS, now the Salem Twp/Daleville Fire Territory. During that time, she was also the office manager in the Daleville-Salem Township Fire Protection Territory Trustee's office from 1996 to 2015, mainly providing or locating assistance when township residents ran into difficulty.
"Affordability is not just a buzzword today; it is the stress point in most of our lives at this time. Life has not felt this precarious for decades.
Every one of us knows how quickly one little thing can put us in need of help. Providing that help is an important part of the work of a township trustee's office, along with providing emergency services through fire and EMS."
Candidate for Yorktown Town Council
Jeffery Tingler
Jeff Tingler is a lifelong Yorktown resident and Yorktown High School graduate. He served 13 years on the Yorktown Fire Department. He currently serves as Vice President of the Yorktown Redevelopment Commission and is a member of the Friends of the Yorktown Library Board. He co-owns the Yorktown Farm & Artisan Market and works as a Director of Learning & Development. Jeff is running for Yorktown Town Council At-Large on a platform of responsible growth, fiscal accountability, and community service.
"Yorktown is where I grew up, raised my family, and built a life of service — 13 years on the Yorktown Fire Department, and now on the Redevelopment Commission and Friends of the Library Board. I'm running because I want to make sure the growth coming to our town is managed responsibly — protecting our neighborhoods, our infrastructure, and the small-town character that makes Yorktown worth living in."
Candidate for Center Township Trustee
Kay Walker
Marilyn Kay Walker, a lifelong Muncie native and graduate of Muncie Community Schools, has dedicated her career to serving Center Township with compassion, integrity, and results. With more than 40 years of public service experience — including 20 years as an investigator in the Trustee’s Office and six years as Executive Director of Mental Health America — Kay brings unmatched knowledge of the community and its needs.
Elected Center Township Trustee in 2006, Kay is committed to community minded leadership, fiscal responsibility, and maintaining a strong safety net for residents in vulnerable situations. She has modernized operations, strengthened services, and championed an efficient government that protects taxpayer dollars while delivering real outcomes.
Kay’s leadership has earned statewide recognition, including Indiana Township Trustee of the Year, Indiana Township of the Year, and her role as President of the Indiana Township Association. She is also the President and Co-Founder of Hearts and Hands United, supporting families across the community by providing over 2,000 new backpacks and shoes to children each year.
It was a longtime dream of Kay’s for the Center Township to provide safe, short-term housing and supportive services for families experiencing homelessness. That dream became a reality in 2025 with the construction of the new and welcoming Lone Pine Lodge Family Shelter.
Candidate for Sheriff
David Williams
Dave Williams has proudly served the Delaware County Sheriff’s Department for 29 years and currently serves as a Sergeant on Day Shift Patrol. A lifelong Delaware County resident, Dave is married to his wife, Lindsey, and together they are raising three children.
As a dedicated law enforcement professional, husband, father, and community leader, Dave believes in serving with integrity, accountability, and respect. He is committed to strengthening public safety, supporting deputies and staff, increasing transparency, and building stronger relationships between law enforcement and the community.
Dave’s mission is simple: put the people of Delaware County first and provide the leadership they deserve.
Experienced. Accountable. Committed to Delaware County.
Candidate for Delaware County Council
Ashley Wright
As a lifelong Delaware County resident, Ashley Wright has a deep appreciation for our community and the people who make it such a wonderful place to live. Her commitment to serving others has been shaped by years of experience working with municipal budgets, where she has learned the importance of responsible financial management, transparency, and making every taxpayer dollar count.
Wright currently serves as Vice President of the Visit Muncie Board and as a board member of the Muncie Parks and Recreation Board. These leadership roles have given her valuable experience working collaboratively to strengthen our community, support local tourism, enhance quality of life, and make thoughtful decisions that benefit our residents.
Family and community have always been at the center of her life, and Wright understands the importance of preserving the values that make Delaware County a great place to live while planning responsibly for the future.
"Above all, I love helping people. Whether it’s listening to residents’ concerns, solving problems, or working to improve our county, I believe public service is about putting people first. As a candidate for Delaware County Council, I am committed to bringing practical experience, fiscal responsibility, integrity, and a servant’s heart to every decision.
I would be honored to earn your support and the opportunity to serve the people of Delaware County"
Candidate for Delaware County Council
Cody York
Cody York is the Democratic candidate for Delaware County Council District 1. He is a lifelong public servant, foster parent, homeowner, and community advocate committed to improving the lives of Hoosiers through effective, accountable government.
Cody earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a concentration in Public Administration and a minor in Social Work from Ball State University. He also earned a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Public and Nonprofit Management from the University of Baltimore.
Throughout his career, Cody has worked in public service, government, and nonprofit settings, helping individuals and families navigate complex systems and connecting them with resources. His experience has strengthened his commitment to transparency, responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, and policies that put people first.
Outside of work, Cody enjoys reading, gardening, crocheting, building scale models, and volunteering in the community. He is active in his church and is passionate about serving others through volunteer work and public service.
"I'm running for Delaware County Council District 1 because I believe county government should be transparent, fiscally responsible, and focused on the needs of the people it serves. I want to keep our community affordable, strengthen public services, and ensure tax dollars are spent wisely. As a foster parent, homeowner, and lifelong public servant, I understand the importance of making decisions that support families, protect vulnerable residents, and create opportunities for future generations."
Contact Us
Address
214 N. Walnut St
Muncie, IN 47305
Contact
(765) 282-9965
