My name is Linda Yockey, and I am running for one of the two 5th District County Commissioner seats in Bedford County!  

Reason for Running for the 5th District Commission Seat

As a young girl, I was always involved in politics by helping James Bomar run every other year for State Representative.   It just seemed the thing that everyone did at that time.   My philosophy is that if you are seeking the Commission seat your primary goal is to represent your constituents and to do the best you can do.  While a decision may not be the most popular, a decision has to be made that is the best not only for the district you represent but the county as a whole.   

I am running to ensure Bedford County remains a place where families thrive, the economy grows, our schools are the best, and our county's natural beauty is perserved for generations.   

Where is the 5th District? 

The Fifth District of Bedford County is located in the county's southeast quadrant. While it is one of the largest districts by land area, it is less densely populated than some surrounding neighbors. The district contains two voting precincts, Flat Creek and Normandy; however, the area encompasses several distinct communities, including Raus, Singleton, Haley, the Country Club, and the Tollgate area.  

 

My Priorities for the County for this Term 

  • Continue the philosophy of no portables in our schools
  • Preserve the rural esthetics of our county
  • Promote managed growth working with the Planning Commission 
  • Support industrial recruitment
  • Work with the Highway Department for better roads
  • Push for plastic & glass recycling bins at Normandy Convenience Center (Tollgate already  has) 
  • Preserve the pristine nature of the Duck River

Experience and Involvement 

  • Current County Commissioner for the  5th  District

  • Serves on County’s Finance Committee

  • Board Member and Past President of Raus Community Club

  • Farm Bureau Director

  • Planning Committee for Bedford County Christmas               

  • Public Records Committee Member   

  • DAR Member 

  • Member of First Christian Church and serves as an Elder

My Record of Results: 

  • A Gold-Standard Economy: Having served on the Finance Committee, I am proud that Bedford County achieved its highest-ever bond rating, signaling to the world that our fiscal house is in order.

  • Uncompromising Accountability: We have secured clean audits in 4 of the last 6 years, proving that we treat every single tax dollar with the respect and transparency it deserves.

  • Taxpayer Champion: I have fought to keep our taxes lower than surrounding counties, ensuring Bedford remains the most affordable and attractive place to live in the region.

  • The "Bedford Connect" Success: I worked tirelessly to secure grants for the Bedford Connect program, partnering with United Communications to bridge the digital divide and bring high-speed broadband to our rural families.

  • TCAT Workforce Revolution: I am a fierce proponent of our TCAT expansion, which now empowers over 700 students with specialized technical skills for high-paying, high-demand local jobs.

  • Preserving Our Rural Soul: I successfully advocated for Designated Scenic Highways and Blue Ribbon Parkways to protect our "rural integrity"—keeping our countryside beautiful and free from clutter.

  • Improving records management:   Historical archives previously scattered or stored in the courthouse attic are now being properly archived in the old Social Security building.

  • Courthouse Restormation:  Interior remodeling of the courthouse is being completed through approved grants, ensuring no cost to taxpayers.  

  • Promoting Community Events:  As the Mayor's representative, I have collaborated with the Bedford County Christmas Committee and the Chamber to revitalize the Square and showcase the courthouse during the holidays.  

Protecting Our Natural Treasures

  • We are all guardians of the Duck River: I am leading the charge to preserve the Duck River, the most biodiverse river in North America, and to ensure it as a pristine destination.   

  • Legacy for Future Generations: By promoting sustainable watershed protections, I am ensuring that the beauty of the Duck River remains untouched for our children and grandchildren.

 Infrastructure & Industry for the Future

  • Smarter Infrastructure: From broadband to better roads, I have delivered enhanced infrastructure improvements that support a modern economy without sacrificing our small-town feel. 

  • High-Wage Job Growth: I am committed to supporting industries that bring specialized technical roles to Bedford, ensuring our residents don't just have jobs, but they have careers.

Bedford County Financial Snapshot

  • Current Credit Rating: AA (S&P Global) / Aa3 (Moody's).

  • Audit Status: Most recent FY2024 audit returned with zero findings or recommendations.

                                            Bedford County Christmas 

 About Me

  • Native Bedford Countian
  • Live in Raus community
  • Run a small cow/calf operation
  • Taught at Cascade H.S. and SCHS 30+ years
  • BS degree Medical Technology 
  • MA in Education 
  • Two children, Nichole and Josh Yockey and one granddaughter, Everly 

 

Raus School Renovations

Rebecca Parker, Carol Roberts and Linda

Eastside School Coat Drive 

On the Farm

Josh, Nichole, Jennifer, Everly, Linda, and Thor the cat

Linda and Everly, my granddaughter

Contact information:   lindayockey@gmail.com

 

  

 

I ask for your vote

Thursday, August 6, 2026.  

POLLS ARE OPEN 9:00 AM TO 7:00 PM ON ELECTION DAY
YOU MUST VOTE AT YOUR PRECINCT ON ELECTION DAY

Voter Registration Deadline Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Early Voting Friday, July 17 – Saturday, August 1, 2026
Absentee Ballot Request Deadline Monday, July 27, 2026

Map of Bedford County Districts

              Map of Flat Creek Voting Precinct

                Map of Normandy Voting Precinct