Chad Barnhart Withdraws from Carroll County Register of Deeds Race

HUNTINGDON — Chad Barnhart, an elected member of the Huntingdon Town Council and a candidate for Carroll County Register of Deeds, announced his withdrawal from the race, citing an issue with a missing required document. Barnhart, whose opponent was incumbent Natalie Porter, decided to withdraw after being informed by the Carroll County Election Commission about the unfiled required document.

Barnhart explained that he received a call last Thursday from the Election Commission regarding a missing document, a paper he and the commission were previously unaware was required. This document, related to a 2023 Tennessee law, was not familiar to the election commission, even though he had previously run for council.

Despite having his rights restored years ago and diligently submitting all required paperwork when he successfully ran for the Huntingdon Town Council, Barnhart faced this unexpected hurdle. He stated that he had submitted all necessary documents 33 days early for the current race, and that the election commission initially believed everything was in order, according to a Facebook video post by Barnhart.

After consulting with the state attorney and hiring legal counsel, Barnhart had a court proceeding scheduled to address the issue. However, he ultimately made a “conscious decision” not to pursue a lawsuit against the county election commission, even though he felt confident he would win. According to the video, he expressed a desire to avoid bringing negativity to the county he serves and loves.

Barnhart extended his best wishes to his opponent, Natalie Porter, describing her as “sweet” and a “good person.” He thanked his supporters for their “overwhelming support” and acknowledged the momentum his campaign had gained.

Looking ahead, Barnhart affirmed his commitment to his faith and his current role on the town council and with the rescue squad. He also indicated plans to run again in four years, stating, “We’re going to come with an army, and I don’t care who runs against me. We’re going to be prepared... and we’re going to win.” He chose to release a video to clarify the situation directly, rather than a post, to ensure transparency.