CIRCLEVILLE, OH — Early returns in the 2026 Republican primary for Ohio’s 12th House District show incumbent State Representative Brian Stewart holding a steady lead over challenger Patty Hamilton.
As of late Tuesday evening, Stewart has jumped out to a multi-county lead in this high-stakes rematch of the 2026 primary. With results trickling in from across the district, which spans Pickaway, Madison, and Franklin counties, Stewart currently maintains the following edge:
Pickaway County: Stewart leads with (4 precincts out of 44) reporting 1,078 to 991.
Madison County: Stewart leads (19 precincts 24) 2051 to 1347.
Franklin County: Stewart leads 209 to 76
A Rivalry Renewed
This race is a direct sequel to the 2024 primary, where Stewart successfully defended his seat against Hamilton with approximately 57% of the vote. Hamilton, a small business owner and U.S. Army veteran, has campaigned heavily on local issues, including opposition to industrial solar fields and data center expansions in Pickaway County.
Stewart, who currently serves as the Chair of the House Finance Committee, has leaned on his legislative record in Columbus and his high-profile advocacy for conservative state policies.
Waiting on Election Day Votes
While the early numbers favor the incumbent, the race is far from over. Election officials note that while several precincts have reported, the bulk of today’s Election Day votes are still being tallied.
Historically, District 12 has seen high turnout in its rural corridors, and both campaigns are closely watching the remaining precincts in Pickaway and Madison counties, which comprise the heart of the district’s GOP base.
