Republican candidate Austin Dodson won the primary race for Overton County Executive Tuesday night.
Dodson said the primary race took a major time commitment as he prioritized his bid for public office above all else. Dodson received 48 percent of the total votes to advance past Gregg Nivens and Steven Barlow.
“I treaded the pavement up there for 12 days and two half days in early voting,” Dodson said. “And I’ve worked hard. I think my voter base saw that and they recognize that I’m going to bring that same effort if I get elected.”
Dodson said he plans on being a voice for those who feel like they do not have one, with inflation and rising costs are one of the driving issues of his election.
“Our small businesses in Overton County, I’ve been around to all of them up at the Rickman, at the Livingston Square, up there and they’re all in need of help right now,” Dodson said. “And they know that I’ve got an ear to listen, and I’ll be sure that their voices are heard in Overton County.”
Dodson said he feels he can relate to private citizens who are struggling financially.
“People are paying more out of their pockets and they’re recognizing that right now,” Dodson said. “And you know, I resonated with voters and feel the same struggle that they have. I pay in property taxes every year just like they do, and it hurts.”
After the election, Dodson said he plans to take a week break before returning to the campaign trail.
“We’re going to put a Republican, conservative Christian into the County Executive Office,” Dodson said.
Dodson will face independents Ben Danner and Randall Stockton in August.
All total voting numbers are still unofficial.