Salina Post
The Saline County Republican Party will hold a convention on Thursday, May 7, at 6:30 pm to select a replacement for the District One seat on the Saline County Commission following the resignation of Commissioner Monte Shadwick, effective immediately.
Due to increased public interest, the convention has been moved to the Friendship Center, 746 Comanche Ave., in Salina.
Under party rules, only duly elected precinct committeemen and committeewomen from County Commission District One are eligible to vote to fill the unexpired term.
Individuals interested in being considered for the appointment must reside in District One.
Interested candidates should contact Saline County GOP Chair Brenda Smith at 785-822-5794 or Vice Chair Tony Newell at 785-577-6640 no later than May 1, 2026.
Candidates will have an opportunity to speak at the May 7 convention prior to the vote.
“This level of interest in local government is encouraging,” Smith said. “We are seeing growing enthusiasm for local politics, stronger engagement in our elections, and greater interest in the future of Saline County. The response to this convention shows that people are paying attention and want to be involved."
Vice Chair Tony Newell said the convention also highlights the important role precinct committee members play in representative government.
“This process is an important reminder that precinct committeemen and committeewomen serve a meaningful role in our system,” Newell said. “They have the responsibility of selecting the person who will fill the unexpired term of a sitting county commissioner. We encourage the public to attend, observe the process, and see local democracy in action.”
Newell added that Saline County Republicans interested in filling vacant precinct committee positions are also encouraged to attend and learn more about how they can become involved in party leadership and local government.
Once the vote is finalized, it will head to the Governor's office and will be a gubernatorial appointment.
The next Commissioner is expected to be in office either the May 19 Saline or June 2, 2026 Saline County Commission public meeting.