Barton cruises through Primary, wins fifth term as Whitley Circuit Clerk

Whitley Circuit Clerk Gary Barton won re-election to his fifth term as circuit clerk during Tuesday’s primary election garnering more than twice as many votes as his opponent, first time candidate Bobby Blakley.

Barton received 3,113 votes in the Republican Primary to Blakley’s 1,525 votes. There are no Democrats in the race and Barton will be unopposed this fall during the general election.

"I was a little surprised. You never know how an election is going to turn out," Barton said Tuesday evening. "You never know how the turnout is going to be. I am very, very pleased.

"It just shows the confidence that the people of Whitley County have in the job that myself and my staff have done in the clerk’s office."

Barton carried all but three precincts, Level Green, Poplar Creek and Pleasant View.

Barton, who 12 years ago won re-election by just two votes, noted that he understands the value of each and every vote.

"I had the close race 12 years ago, and I ask everybody, who I see, to vote for me," he said. "People appreciate being asked to vote. I tried to ask as many people as I could. I think that has helped me through the years."

Barton attributed his success to both hard work and experience.

"I have a lot of people, who I have gotten to know through the years, who have really helped me in my elections, including people, who have talked to other people for me and just helped in my elections," Barton said.

Barton acknowledged that his opponent ran a good race.

"It was his first time in politics. I know it’s difficult to run a race the first time," he added.

For his part, Blakley admits that he was a little disappointed in the outcome.

"I am somewhat disappointed. I put a lot of effort into this," he said.

Blakley said he would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone, who helped out his campaign, especially his wife, children and mother.

Blakley said that the election has consumed his family’s life for the last six months.

He congratulated his opponent on his victory, and said this won’t be his last run at public office.

"I do plan to run again in six years," Blakley added.