With five months to go before qualifying begins, the 2026 Columbus elections are already taking shape, as six mayoral hopefuls and six city council contenders have declared their intent to run. The qualifying period is scheduled for March 2–6, 2026.
On the mayoral side, former City Manager Isaiah Hugley is drawing significant attention following his controversial termination and subsequent decision to enter the race. Also in the field is Mark LaJoye, a perennial candidate who has mounted five unsuccessful bids for Muscogee County sheriff. Political newcomers Steven Kelly and Kia Marie Legette have announced their first runs for public office. District 7 Councilor JoAnne Cogle, who has served on the council for two years, is making a bid for the city’s top post, while District 1 Councilor Byron Hickey entered the race this week. Hickey was appointed last year following the death of longtime Councilor Jerry “Pops” Barnes.
In the city council races, Barnes’ daughter, Simi Barnes, is seeking to succeed her father in District 1. She faces competition from Karen Gaskins, a former police officer whose residency has already come under scrutiny amid questions about whether she resides in Phenix City, Alabama.
Other council candidates include Christopher Kelley, currently serving as District Deputy Director and field representative for U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop, who is running for the District 7 seat. In the District 9 At-Large race, three candidates have declared: Dr. Cathy Cook, a local dentist and entrepreneur; Dr. Rocky Marsh, a Department of Defense budget analyst at Fort Benning; and John Van Doorn, former chairman of the Muscogee County Democratic Party…