Jackson County Executive Indicted on Bribery Charges; Supporters Stand By Him

Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota faces federal charges following an indictment by a grand jury on Thursday. The charges stem from an alleged bribery scheme involving the 2026 election for county executive.

What Happened

Federal prosecutors stated that LeVota, who assumed the role of county executive in October 2025, is accused of offering another politician a six-figure county job. This offer was reportedly made to persuade the politician to withdraw from the race for county executive in the same year. Both individuals involved in the alleged scheme ultimately withdrew from the race, which was won by Stacy Lake on Tuesday.

LeVota denied the charges on Thursday and identified current county Legislator DaRon McGee as the politician involved. McGee has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Key Facts

• Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota was indicted on five federal charges on Thursday.
• The charges are related to an alleged bribery scheme concerning the 2026 election for county executive.
• Prosecutors claim LeVota offered a six-figure job to another politician to withdraw from the race.
• Both LeVota and the other politician withdrew from the 2026 election.
• Stacy Lake won the 2026 election for county executive.
• LeVota denied the charges and named Legislator DaRon McGee as the other politician involved.
• Some individuals who participated in a 2025 recall effort for former Jackson County Executive Frank White have expressed continued support for LeVota.
• These supporters stated they believe LeVota is innocent until proven guilty and have no regrets about the recall of White, citing dissatisfaction with his handling of the 2023 property assessment process.
• LeVota has not yet indicated whether he will resign amidst the charges.
• LeVota has previously passed measures related to property assessments and taxes.

Background

Residents involved in a recall effort against former Jackson County Executive Frank White in 2025 have stated their continued support for the current interim executive, Phil LeVota. Tima Ford, who helped gather signatures for the recall of White due to dissatisfaction with the 2023 property assessment process, expressed surprise at LeVota's indictment but maintained her support, stating, “He grew on me, I liked him. I still like him.” Ford also conveyed satisfaction with White's departure: “I’m glad he’s gone. Very glad he’s gone.”