NC GAZETTE / WBRT RADIO
STAFF REPORT
Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025 — Additional candidates have filed to run for local office at the Nelson County Clerk’s office.
Don Thrasher, a resident of Colonel Cox Road, has filed to run as a Republican candidate for District 4 magistrate.
Brent Brey, a resident of Antler’s Trace, also filed to run as a Republican candidate for District 4 magistrate.
At this evening’s Nelson Fiscal Court meeting, Jeff Lear, the current District 4 magistrate, publicly confirmed the rumors that after 16 years on the court that he would not seek another term.
District 5 Magistrate Jon Snow also announced that he would not seek re-election.
Former Magistrate Gary Coulter has filed as a Republican candidate for District 2 magistrate.
Incumbent Magistrate M.T. Harned has also filed to keep his office as District 3 magistrate.
The following candidates have filed as candidates for the races listed below:
Nelson County Clerk – Jeanette Hall Sidebottom (D)
Nelson County Judge-Executive – Tim Hutchins (R)
County Attorney – Arch C. “Chip” McKay (D)
Nelson County Sheriff – Ramon “P-RO” Pineiroa (D)
— William Jarren Culver (R)
Nelson County Jailer – Justin David Hall (R)
Nelson County Coroner – Danielle Elizabeth Chladek (R)
Nelson County Property Valuation Administrator (PVA) – Jason “Jay” Williams (R)
Magistrate District 1 – Ballard Keith Metcalfe (D)
Magistrate District 2 – Adam Wheatley (R)
Magistrate District 5: Robert Allen Chesser (R)
Nelson County Surveyor – no filings
Nelson County Constable – no filings
The filing deadline for the 2026 primary is 4p.m. Friday, Jan. 9, 2026.
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