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Jason Ray Kirkland
Office history
Current office and 2026 campaign
Jason "Jay" Kirkland is the sitting chairman of the Swain County Board of Commissioners. He is running as a Republican for a regular seat on the Board of Commissioners in the 2026 election, appearing on the March 3, 2026 primary ballot for one of the county's commissioner seats 1. Per the Smoky Mountain News, by the November general election Kirkland "will have served one year in the position" of chairman, but "he's seeking another term on the board, but not as its chairman" — he is not a candidate for chairman in this cycle 1.
Background and career
Kirkland works in the logging industry. Commissioner David Loftis, nominating him for chairman, described him as a man who "logs for a living, raised in Bryson City all of his life, worked hard" 2.
Office history
Swain County commissioners unanimously appointed Kirkland chairman of the Board of Commissioners on October 28, 2025, succeeding Kevin Seagle, who had resigned the chairmanship that August 23. Commissioner Bobby Jenkins nominated Kirkland and Commissioner David Loftis seconded the motion 2.
Sources
Public filings
Candidates and officeholders are required by law to file campaign finance reports and statements of economic interest. The sites below don't support direct links to an individual record — search by last name on each.
North Carolina — campaign finance
- State, county, and municipal candidates — all in one system — NC State Board of Elections — Committee Search. Search by last name “Kirkland”.
North Carolina — statement of economic interest
- Required for state-elected and many local officials — NC State Ethics Commission — Statement of Economic Interest Search. Search by last name “Kirkland”.