Eureka Springs resident Dianna Baird announced her candidacy for Carroll County Judge at the county Republican Committee meeting on Oct. 13, challenging the incumbent and calling for leadership that is hands-on, accountable and people-focused.

In a news release, Baird said her campaign centers on improving county roads, protecting private property rights and expanding transparency and access to county government.

“Our roads have been neglected and need real attention,” Baird said. “I will develop a long-term maintenance plan, strengthen oversight of contracts and spending, and ensure real accountability so we stop patching problems and start fixing them.”

Baird also emphasized protecting property rights as a core value in Carroll County.

“Property ownership is part of who we are,” she said. “I will stand up for fairness in appraisals and land-use decisions and fight government overreach.”

Transparency and public access are central to her campaign.

“People deserve to know what’s happening and why,” Baird said. “Under my leadership, county government will be transparent, responsive and open to its citizens.”

Baird brings more than 28 years of county government experience and retired in August 2021 as a senior contract services cfficer. She holds the Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) designation, earned a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science from National University of California, and is a graduate of Leadership Auburn.

Married for more than 37 years, Baird and her husband have two children and three grandchildren. Explaining her decision to come out of retirement, Baird said, “I believe I can make a difference by changing the things I can and seeking wisdom in the process,” adding that she hopes to earn the support of voters in the 2026 Preferential Primary.

“I’m running because I believe in this community — its people, its values, and its future,” Baird said. “This campaign is about service, stewardship and common sense.”

The deadline to register to vote is Feb. 2, 2026. The Preferential Primary Election will be held March 3, 2026.