Meet the Republican Candidates for County Clerk
Three Republican candidates will be on the ballot in the Republican Primary election for County Clerk; Roger Clifton, Ron Pirtle and John Vickers. We invite you to read their interviews and learn more about these candidates before you cast your vote.
The winner of the Republican Primary will earn the nomination to be on the August 6, 2026, ballot and will face Democratic incumbent candidate Tonet Griggs. No independent candidates are running for this position.
Meet the Republican Candidates for County Clerk
Why have you chosen to run for County Clerk?
Clifton: Hardeman is in need of proven common sense leadership that will be willing to introduce new and improved services, working for the people of this county—someone with unwavering integrity to do the right thing, even when it is difficult. When it comes to handling public records and taxpayer dollars, results matter. With my qualifications, I believe I am the person who can accurately and professionally deliver these results that the people deserve.
Pirtle: I’ve chosen to run because I believe county government should be accessible, efficient, and respectful to every resident. In my current role, I work with the public every day, and I see how important that first interaction with government can be. The County Clerk’s office sets the tone for that experience, and I want to make sure it’s a positive one built on professionalism and trust.
Vickers: I am seeking the position of County Clerk to bring my proven dedication to exceptional customer service, operational efficiency, and community-focused leadership to ensure the office runs smoothly and serves the public with integrity and dependability.
Would you like to share anything about your family and work history?
Clifton: Being both a husband and father, this county is home to myself, my wife, and our three children, and our community is one worth investing in for our future generations. With over 15 years experience in administration, leadership, and management, I have dilligently worked to lead and develop teams at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, the community and other businesses delivering the results necessary for customer satisfaction protecting the customers and employees with quality satisfaction and accountability.
Pirtle: I’m proud to be part of this community, and my family and I are deeply rooted here, including the years we have spent as part of Boom City Fireworks. My professional background includes serving as a college administrator and as a hospice chaplain, roles that have strengthened my ability to work with people, listen with compassion, and handle sensitive situations with care. Combined with my experience in county government, my work has always been focused on serving others, solving problems, and making sure things are done the right way. That commitment is what drives me to serve.
Vickers: Having had the privilege of raising my two daughters here and now witnessing my 4 grandchildren growing up within this community I am profoundly invested in its long term well being.
What experience do you have that has prepared you for this position?
Clifton: I bring a wealth of management and leadership experience that directly prepares me for the responsibilities of County Clerk. I have successfully developed and led teams, managed budgets with accountability, and overseen daily operations and personnel processes. My focus on customer satisfaction ensures that citizens receive respectful and efficient service. Additionally, my experience with administrative and operational management has equipped me with the organizational skills and attention to detail necessary to maintain accurate records and ensure the smooth operation of the office.
Pirtle: I’ve spent several years working within county government, managing records, enforcing regulations fairly, and working directly with residents and businesses. I understand the importance of accuracy, compliance, and customer service. This is not a position where you learn as you go—experience matters, and I’m prepared to step in and serve effectively from day one.
Vickers: My preparation for the County Clerk position is rooted in my extensive professional background. As a business owner for over eighteen years, I developed a strong commitment to outstanding customer service, ensuring efficient and accessible operations that consistently met the needs of the community through friendly and responsive interactions. This experience instilled in me the values of honest and dependable leadership. Furthermore, my twelve years of service as a County Commissioner have provided me with a comprehensive and practical understanding of local government operations and the essential skills required for effective public service.
What do you anticipate being the most difficult part of this position?
Clifton: I anticipate that one of the most challenging aspects of the position will be balancing increasing service demands with limited resources. As the needs of Hardeman County continue to grow, ensuring efficiency while maintaining a high level of customer service will require thoughtful leadership and strategic planning. I am prepared to meet these challenges head-on by fostering a strong team, implementing effective processes, and always keeping the needs of the citizens at the forefront.
Pirtle: One of the biggest challenges I anticipate is balancing efficiency with accuracy while serving a high volume of people. Residents expect quick service, but they also deserve precision and professionalism. Meeting both expectations consistently requires strong organization, good systems, and a commitment to doing things the right way every time.
Vickers: Gaining the Respect and Trust of the Hardeman County Residents. And bringing integrity back to the clerks office.
In a single sentence (about 25 words), how would you respond to the question, “Why should I vote for you?”
Clifton: I am a servant leader with proven experience in workforce development, budgeting, and customer service, dedicated to ensuring the County Clerk’s office works efficiently for every citizen with respect and integrity. My priorities if elected; protect taxpayers dollars, improve communication to the citizens from the office, new & improved services for renewals and essential services, extended service hours or Saturday hours for those can’t make it during the week so the office is convenient and accessible.
Pirtle: I bring proven experience, faith-driven values, and a commitment to professionalism and integrity, focused on ensuring the Clerk’s office serves every resident efficiently and respectfully.
Vickers: Voters should choose me for my dedicated customer-focused service, efficient government operations, and reliable, experienced leadership honed over 30 years in business and public service.
Early voting dates are Wednesday, April 15 – Thursday, April 30, 2026, for the May 5, 2026, County Primary.
For more information, contact the Hardeman County Election Commission at 227 Lucy Black Road, Bolivar, Tennessee 38008, or by phone (731) 658-4751.
Click here to read Roger Clifton’s candidacy announcement.
Click here to read Ron Pirtle’s candidacy announcement.
Click here to read John Vicker’s candidacy announcement.
Click here to read more Meet the Candidate interviews
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