Chilton County Probate Judge Bobby Martin announced Monday he plans to run for re-election as a Republican.

“I’ve always been conservative, had conservative views and a conservative stance,” Martin said. “I felt like it was time to become completely conservative.”

Martin was one of several candidates to attend the Chilton County Republican Party’s candidate qualifying event called “Rally for Republicans … from Chilton County to D.C.,” at the Chilton County Courthouse Monday night.

Chilton County Republican Party Chairwoman Carol Harrison said the state’s executive committee mandated the qualifying rally because of an increase in candidates switching parties.

Elected as an Independent, Tim Mims switched to the Republican ticket in August. Mims was re-elected for chairman of the Chilton County Commission Monday morning.

“We have a very good commission,” Mims said. “They elected me as chairman four years in a row. I think that speaks that I do a pretty good job.”

Greg Moore, Aubrey Wallace, Shannon Welch and Allen Caton will run for the Chilton County Commission.

“I’m looking forward to this new area in my life,” Welch said. “I want to thank the ones who have supported me so far.”

Caton said he has served as vice-chairman for the last four years.

“I’m proud to say that I’ve never missed a meeting, a budget hearing or a work session,” Caton said. “I’m the only commissioner who can say that. If you’re not there, you can’t serve.”

Incumbent Circuit Clerk Glen McGriff said he has been in public office for 22 years and would like to serve another term as circuit clerk.

“I do appreciate the people of Chilton County,” McGriff said. “They’ve been good to me, and they’ve been good to my family. I come to work every day trying to be a public servant.”

Judge Liles Burke and Judge Michael Joiner will run for the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals.

State Sen. Cam Ward and Rep. Kurt Wallace attended the event as well.