OTTUMWA — Two contested races have emerged for Wapello County, though only one will generate a primary contest.

Jim Leichty of Ottumwa has joined Steve Siegel as a Democratic candidate for county supervisor. Siegel is seeking his third term as county supervisor.

It’s the first time this filing season that candidates from the same party have filed for the same county office. Primary filing opened on March 3.

Previously, two candidates filed for the vacant spot as Wapello County auditor. Current Auditor Phyllis Dean decided against seeking re-election. Vicki Smith and Kelly Spurgeon are vying to replace Dean. Both already work in the office.

But that contest will take place in the general election. Spurgeon filed to run as a Democrat, while Smith filed as a Republican.

The third county office up for election this year has only one candidate at this time. Sheriff Don Kirkendall has filed for re-election.

The primary date for county offices is June 3, the same date as that for state and federal candidates. Filing for those offices ends tomorrow. County candidates have until March 26 to file for this year’s primary.

Candidates for federal races and the Iowa General Assembly are filling up the lists for this year’s races. Most filings thus far for southeast Iowa spots are incumbents, many of whom are not yet facing challenges.

The Second Congressional district is the exception, where a Republican primary is assured along with a November contest.

Matt Milner can be reached at (641) 683-5359 or via e-mail at mwmilner@mchsi.com