Proven Election Leader !
About David
David Shelton, a current Knox County Clerk and Republican Party Chairman, is running for Indiana Secretary of State in 2026. Known for his hands-on leadership and national recognition in election administration, Shelton offers unmatched experience, innovation, and integrity.
In 2022, Shelton entered the Republican convention race for Secretary of State just three months before the vote. Backed by 63 Republican County Clerks, he earned 18% on the first ballot in a four-way race—finishing ahead of one candidate—before being eliminated after the second round.
Outside of public office, Shelton is a business owner and U.S. patent holder, with companies supporting election infrastructure, redistricting, and private investigations. His redistricting firm has helped over 40% of Indiana counties at no charge.
David and his wife Rachel live in Vincennes with their five children: Philip, Isaac, Luke, Katie, and Matthew.
With extensive experience in elections, leadership in government, and innovation in business, David Shelton is uniquely equipped to serve as Indiana’s next Secretary of State
Why I Am Running:
Restore Integrity & Professionalism to the Office
- Remove personal branding and self-promotion from official materials.
- Re-establish the office as a nonpartisan institution focused on service, not self-interest.
- Prioritize transparency, public trust, and professionalism.
Strengthen Election Administration Statewide
- Launch a statewide “Election Bootcamp” to provide hands-on training for new county clerks and election staff.
- Promote consistency across counties while respecting local flexibility.
- Champion continuing education for both election administrators and Indiana voters.
Lead with Vision and Experience
- Establish a leadership model for supporting all county election offices.
- Serve as a working partner on Indiana’s Election Core Team to shape responsible, secure legislation.
Enhance Election Security and Modernization
- Work with state and federal lawmakers to protect voter registration systems and secure election infrastructure.
- Advocate for legislative advancements that improve accuracy, access, and accountability in Indiana elections.
Support Redistricting Readiness Ahead of the 2030 Census
- Provide counties with tools, templates, and hands-on assistance for local redistricting processes.
- Ensure every county is equipped to handle its post-Census responsibilities with confidence.
Elevate the Non-Election Divisions of the Office
- Apply 25+ years of fraud investigation experience to strengthen securities and business oversight.
- Modernize and streamline services across the business services, notary, and auto dealer licensing divisions.
- Expand consumer protection efforts through proactive enforcement and education.