Primary 2026 candidate Q&A: County clerk
Two Republicans – Abby Myers and Carrie Sanders – and one Democrat, Karan Benner, will be on the May 5 primary ballot.
Two Republicans and one Democrat will be on ballots for Tippecanoe County clerk in the May 5 primary.
Abby Myers and Carrie Sanders, each working in the clerk’s office, are vying for the Republican nomination. Karan Benner will be the Democratic nominee.
County Clerk Julie Roush, a Republican, is not up for re-election, after serving two four-year terms in the position.
The county clerk oversees court operations and is in charge of elections.
Here, the candidates running for Tippecanoe County clerk in District 2 discuss their approach to the position.
For more: Find bios of each candidate, along with information about where and when to vote, at the end of this article. Watch in the coming days for more candidate Q&As in other races on Tippecanoe County primary ballots.
Why do you want this job? Why are you running now for this position?
Abby Myers: I’m running because I care deeply about the role of the county clerk. I’ve dedicated my 15-year career to public service, including a decade working as a clerk. This is not a stepping stone for me, it’s a long-term commitment. I care about this office, our staff and the community we serve. My decision to run is rooted in the example my parents set through their commitment to Tippecanoe County and serving others. As one of the current clerk supervisors, I bring a well-rounded, day-to-day understanding of how the office operates.
Carrie Sanders: As a lifelong resident of Tippecanoe County, this community has shaped my life, and I care deeply about the people who live here. Over the past 25 years, I have worked throughout our local legal system as a Clerk Supervisor, paralegal, court reporter, and in elections and voter registration. Those roles have given me a strong understanding of how the clerk’s office supports our courts, manages records, and helps administer elections. I am running because that experience has prepared me to lead the office with professionalism, accountability and a clear focus on serving the people of Tippecanoe County.
Karan Benner: I want this job because after listening to the people of our community I believe I can make a meaningful impact acting on what matters to them. I am running because I feel compelled to ensure that local government stays responsive to the people it serves.
Name two of your top priorities for the position. And how will you handle them?
Abby Myers: My top priorities are ensuring secure, transparent elections and maintaining accurate, efficient court operations. For elections, I will ensure strict adherence to Indiana election law while emphasizing preparation, transparency, and attention to detail. I will also increase voter education and strengthen communication to build public trust. In court operations, I will implement consistent procedures, prioritize staff training, and maintain strong records management to support accuracy and efficiency. By staying actively involved in daily operations and leading by example, I will ensure both the courts and elections are managed with professionalism and integrity.
Carrie Sanders: Two of my top priorities are improving organization and accessibility within the Board of Elections and Voter Registration office and continuing to strengthen the efficiency of the clerk’s office systems. Voters and residents should feel confident and comfortable when interacting with these offices. That comes from clear processes, well-organized information, and consistent service. With my experience across multiple roles in the court system, I understand where processes can be improved and how departments work together. I will work closely with staff to evaluate current systems, identify practical improvements, and ensure the office operates in a way that is efficient, transparent, and responsive to the public.
Karan Benner: Expanding early voting and transparency. With early voting, I will work with the community to identify accessible locations and recruit volunteers to support our growing, busy population. I will strengthen transparency by clearly outlining major decisions and posting them on the website for the community.
What’s one way you’d look to improve how elections are run in Tippecanoe County?
Abby Myers: One way to improve elections is by increasing direct outreach and building stronger community partnerships to better educate voters. By working with local organizations, schools, and community groups, we can share clear, accessible information about voting options, procedures, and important deadlines. Increasing education and communication helps improve transparency and build public trust. My goal is to ensure voters feel informed, confident, and empowered to participate, ultimately increasing voter turnout while maintaining accurate, secure, and transparent elections.
Carrie Sanders: Tippecanoe County runs strong elections, but there is always room to improve efficiency and the voter experience. One area I would focus on is strengthening how our local system works with the state election software, which can sometimes slow down processes at the county level. Because I have direct experience in elections and voter registration, I understand both the operational side and what voters experience when they interact with the system. My goal would be to ensure our processes are efficient, easy to navigate, and supported by clear communication so voters can participate with confidence.
Karan Benner: Efficiency. Voting lines could move faster with simple efficiency improvements like better queue organization and a designated staff to guide and direct voters. These small adjustments can make a big difference in reducing wait times.
Name two specific things that separate you from your opponent and why those matter.
Abby Myers: First, I am the only candidate who brings extensive, current, hands-on experience within the clerk’s office, where I work directly in daily operations and lead much of the staff training. I attend clerk and election trainings annually to stay current on legislation, procedures, and best practices. This gives me a strong understanding of the systems, responsibilities, and expectations for the clerk’s office.
Second, I am the only candidate who has broad, in-depth experience working elections, including supervising voting sites, assisting with voter registration, and preparing for each election cycle. These experiences provide the readiness and depth needed to lead effectively from day one, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and public trust.
Carrie Sanders: First, I bring more than 25 years of experience working across Tippecanoe County’s legal system, including leadership roles in the clerk’s office, as well as experience as a paralegal and court reporter working directly with judges and attorneys. The depth of that experience gives me a clear understanding of how the clerk’s office connects with the courts, law enforcement, and the public.
Second, I bring proven leadership experience. The clerk’s role requires strong leadership. It is not simply about managing day-to-day tasks inside the office. It requires setting direction, supporting staff, and making sure the entire operation runs the way it should, with accuracy, professionalism, and dependable service for the people of Tippecanoe County.
Karan Benner: I have a background that is steeped in customer service, both corporate and public service, and therefore bring a different perspective to the job. It helps me spot inefficiencies that others may overlook. I am a strong listener and believe effective community leadership starts with understanding what people need and expect from their elected officials.
Bios
Abby Myers
Party: Republican
Age: 40
Occupation: High Volume Court Clerk Supervisor for the Tippecanoe County Clerk’s Office
Educational background: I have a Bachelor of Science degree from Ball State University, where I was a student athlete, and I was an honors graduate of Harrison High School.
Past elected positions, if any: I am a current elected precinct-committeeman
Community boards or other community leadership and service: I am the current secretary of the Republican Women’s Club. I was appointed and served on the Planning Commission Board in Haven, Kansas. I was a volunteer at Heartford House Child Advocacy Center and Crystal Creek Kennels.
Immediate family: I have a 10-year-old daughter, and my parents are Roy Gross and Dawn Dobyns-Gross.
Your campaign site online: www.abbymyers4clerk.com/
Carrie Sanders
Party: Republican
Age: 51
Occupation: Clerk
Educational background: West Lafayette High School and Purdue University
Past elected positions, if any: none
Community boards or other community leadership and service: 100 Women that Care; Women’s Republican Club; Women’s nutrition help/guidance
Immediate family: William Sanders, Emma Bell, Noah Bell and Benjamin Bell
Your campaign site online: electcarrie.com
Karan Benner
Party: Democratic
Age: 67
Occupation: Retired
Educational background: Highland Highschool, BS from Purdue University
Past elected positions, if any: None
Community boards or other community leadership and service: Chairperson, Waldo Friends of the Library, Waldo Code Enforcement Board, coach for Destination Imagination
Immediate family: Husband Patrick Benner, daughter Kathlene Cunningham, son Zachary Benner, son Jacob Benner
Your campaign site online: Karanforclerk.com (Karan Benner for County Clerk)
ABOUT THE MAY 5 PRIMARY
Early voting ahead of the May 5 primary election runs April 7 to May 4 with contested races on Tippecanoe County ballots for U.S. House, several Indiana General Assembly seats, Tippecanoe County commissioner and Tippecanoe County Council seats, township position and state convention delegates. Voters may choose a Republican or Democratic ballot, but not both, when checking in at the voting site.
Voter registration/ballots
To check your voter registration and to see candidates who will be on your R or D ballot, go to the Secretary of State’s portal at www.indianavoters.com.
Early voting sites
In Tippecanoe County, registered voters may cast their ballot at any vote center.
April 7 to May 4: Tippecanoe County Office Building, 20 N. Third St. in Lafayette. Weekday hours: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. April 7-10, April 13-17, April 20-24, April 27-May 1. Other hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. April 25 and May 2; and 8 a.m.-noon May 4.
April 18: McAllister Recreation Center, 2351 N. 20th St., Lafayette. Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
April 21: Córdova Recreation Center, 355 N. Martin Jischke Drive, West Lafayette. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
April 23: First United Methodist Church, 1700 Mitch Daniels Blvd., West Lafayette. Hours: Noon-5 p.m.
April 25: West Point Fire Station, 4949 Indiana 25 S., West Point; Otterbein United Methodist Church, 405 Oxford St., Otterbein; and Clarks Hill Christian Church, 9510 Pearl St., Clarks Hill. Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
April 28-May 1: Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds, 1406 Teal Road, Lafayette; Wea Ridge Baptist Church, 1051 E. County Road 430 South, Lafayette; Eastside Assembly of God, 6121 E. County Road 50 South, Lafayette; and John Dennis Wellness Center, 1101 Kalberer Road, West Lafayette. Hours: Noon- 6 p.m.
May 2: Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds, 1406 Teal Road, Lafayette; Wea Ridge Baptist Church, 1051 E. County Road 430 South, Lafayette; Eastside Assembly of God, 6121 E. County Road 50 South, Lafayette; and John Dennis Wellness Center, 1101 Kalberer Road, West Lafayette. Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Election Day vote centers
Voting on Tuesday, May 5, will be 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Registered voters in Tippecanoe County may choose any of these sites.
Lafayette
Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds, 1406 Teal Road
Lafayette Community Church of the Nazarene, 3801 Union St
The Grove Covenant Church, 3600 S. Ninth St.
Tippecanoe County Historical Association History Center, 522 Columbia St.
Wea Ridge Baptist Church, 1051 E. County Road 430 South
Eastside Assembly of God, 6121 E. County Road 50 South
Northend Community Center, 2000 Elmwood Ave.
West Lafayette
Faith West Community Center, 1920 Northwestern Ave.
Córdova Recreation Center, 355 N. Martin Jischke Drive
Connection Point Church, 2541 Cumberland Ave.
John Dennis Wellness Center, 1101 Kalberer Road
Outside Lafayette/West Lafayette
Shadeland Town Hall, 2485 Indiana 25 West, Shadeland
Tippecanoe Township Volunteer Fire Station No. 2, 448 W. County Road 650 North, West Lafayette
Dayton Gathering Point Church, 7201 Wesleyan Drive, Dayton
Battle Ground Fire Station, 112 North St., Battle Ground
On the ballot
Here are candidates who will be on Tippecanoe County ballots in the May 5 primary. (* = incumbent)
Tippecanoe County offices
Commissioner, District 1: Julie Roush and James Waters, R; Andrea Burniske, Travis Dowell, Justin Kendall and AR Lane, D
County Council, District 1: Ben Murray*, D; Trent Richter, R
County Council, District 2: Jody Hamilton* and Jonathan Chapin, R
County Council, District 3: Lynn Beck, R
County Council, District 4: Lisa Dullum*, D
County Clerk: Abby Myers and Carrie Sanders, R; Karan Benner, D
Assessor: Anthony Hustedt-Mai, R; Kaitlyn Butler, D
Auditor: Jennifer Weston*, R; Eric Grossman, D
Recorder: Kristy Martin*, R; Monica Casanova, D
Prosecutor: Jason Biss, R
Judge, Superior Court 1: Kevin McDaniel*, R
Judge, Superior Court 2: Sarah Wyatt, R
Judge, Superior Court 4: Matt Sandy*, R
Judge, Superior Court 5: Kristen McVey*, R
Judge, Superior Court 7: Dan Moore*, R
Indiana General Assembly
House District 13: Matt Commons*, R; Brenna Geswein and Ed Moyer Jr., D
House District 26: Chris Campbell*, D; Magdalaine Davis, R
House District 27: Sheila Klinker*, D; Tracy Brown and Oscar Alvarez, R
House District 38: Heath VanNatter* and Mark Hufford, R; and Nate Stout, D
House District 41: Mark Genda*, R; Jackson Hayes, D
Senate District 22: Ron Alting* and Richard Bagsby, R; Natasha Baker and Marlena Edmondson, D
Senate District 23: Spencer Deery* and Paula Copenhaver, R; David Sanders, D
Congress
U.S. House, District 4: Jim Baird*, Craig Haggard and John Piper, R; Drew Cox, Roger Day, Darin Griesey, Thomas Hall Jr., Robert Lovely, Joe Mackey, Jayden McCash, Paul McPherson and John Whetstone, D.
For a look at all candidates on Tippecanoe County primary ballots, including those for township trustee, township boards and state delegates, here are links to Democratic candidates and Republican candidates.
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I know we prefer to keep a local focus within local elections, but given that widespread election fraud is a false belief that is widely held among Republicans I'll hope that you will ask the candidates about their positions on that when we get to the fall election campaign. If the Republican candidates believe in such nonsense, even if not locally, voters should know about that, because there are serious risks attached to electing candidates who buy into election conspiracy.