With fewer than 110 days before qualifying begins, the 2026 Columbus municipal elections are already drawing significant interest. Six candidates have announced bids for mayor, and eight others are seeking seats on the Columbus City Council. The qualifying period is set for March 2–6, 2026.
According to Nancy Boren, Director of Elections and Registration the following individuals are the only candidates that have qualified. On the mayoral ballot, former City Manager Isaiah Hugley has emerged as a high-profile contender following his controversial termination earlier this year. Also running is Mark LaJoye, a perennial candidate who has previously sought the Muscogee County sheriff’s post five times.
Two first-time political hopefuls—Steven Kelly and Jaketra Bryant—have launched their inaugural campaigns for public office. They are joined by seated council members stepping into the mayoral arena: District 7 Councilor JoAnne Cogle, now in her second year of service, and District 1 Councilor Byron Hickey, who was appointed in 2024 after the death of longtime Councilor Jerry “Pops” Barnes…