The Elkhart County Republican Party wants you to know your candidates. Throughout the run toward the May 2026 Primary Election, we will be posting Q&As with your candidates to help introduce (and re-introduce) them to you – the Republican voter! All Republican candidates in the race are contacted. We begin this series with the contested race for Elkhart County Council, District 4. [Incumbent Dave Hess (R) is not seeking re-election.]

Candidate Bio: Brian Clayton – With more than four decades of leadership experience and deep roots in the community, Brian Clayton has announced his candidacy for the District 4 seat on the County Council in the upcoming May primary election.

District 4 includes the townships of Olive, Locke, Harrison, Union, Jackson, Benton, Clinton, Middlebury, and York.

A lifelong resident of Elkhart County and Jackson Township, Clayton brings 41 years of experience in operations and management with Keystone Cooperative, one of Indiana’s leading agricultural cooperatives. In addition, Clayton and his late wife, Bee Clayton, owned and operated a small business in Goshen for 35 years, giving him firsthand experience with the challenges facing local employers and working families.

Clayton said his decision to run is rooted in a desire to continue serving the community he has called home his entire life.

“Our county deserves leadership grounded in honesty, integrity, and sound decision-making,” Clayton said. “I am committed to working collaboratively with fellow council members to ensure fiscal responsibility and to support the long-term success of District 4 and all of Elkhart County.”

In addition to his professional background, Clayton has remained active in community service, volunteering with Elkhart County 4-H, mentoring at Faith Mission in Elkhart, and serving on several local boards. He currently serves as a member of the Whitehead Cemetery Board.

The District 4 County Council seat will appear on the ballot in the May primary election.

Why did you decide to seek election/re-election to this office? I retired over a year ago and feel I still have a lot to give back. I have been Praying and searching for a chance to make a positive impact in people’s lives. Since Dave Hess announced he would not seek re-election to the County Council, several individuals have approached me about running for the open seat. My background in leadership and dedication has prepared me to serve in this capacity. 

What do you feel are the main issues facing this office heading into your next potential term?

  1. Senate Enrolled Act 1 (2025/2026), signed into law.
    • We don’t know the full impact of this tax reform, however will need to watch closely and face the brutal facts and act appropriately and promptly.
  2. Position Elkhart County as an attractive destination for businesses seeking new opportunities
  3. Work with municipal and community leaders to advance countywide goals such as improving roads, traffic flow, business development, and affordable housing.
  4. Maintain the positive progress and strong leadership that the council has demonstrated.

What are some elements of this job that the public may not know about? The Elkhart County Council has Fiscal Oversight: Reviewing and approving the annual operating budgets for all county government departments, including the jail, highway department, and health department. This position also demands strategic planning and visionary thinking regarding Elkhart County’s financial and cultural landscape as it evolves for future generations of residents.

Why have you decided to seek election as a Republican candidate and why are those values important to you? As a Republican, I am an individual guided by Faith, offering common sense, dedication, sound judgment, and most of all a positive attitude when working with others. MY Key Values:

I WILL, 

  • Serve with a level of Honesty & Integrity that is beyond reproach. 
  • Work together as a Team to reach shared Goals. 
  • Face the Brutal Facts and Change as Required. 
  • Commit to being the Best Every Day. 

How can voters get in touch with you and stay updated on your campaign?

[Note: All candidates were contacted regarding this survey. The other candidate[s] in this race did not respond.]