District Court Judge District 40 Seat 4 (Buncombe County)

What this office does

A judge. Judges decide criminal and civil cases. Depending on the state and court, they are chosen in contested elections or in retention votes, where you vote YES or NO on keeping the judge for another term.

Candidates

Also on Buncombe County ballots

• District Attorney District 40
• District Court Judge District 40 Seat 1
• District Court Judge District 40 Seat 2
• District Court Judge District 40 Seat 3
• District Court Judge District 40 Seat 5
• Superior Court Judge District 40 Seat 2

All Buncombe County races and measures →

Quick answers

Who is running for District Court Judge District 40 Seat 4 (Buncombe County) in 2026?

Susan (Smitty) Dotson-Smith (Democrat).

What does this office do?

A judge. Judges decide criminal and civil cases. Depending on the state and court, they are chosen in contested elections or in retention votes, where you vote YES or NO on keeping the judge for another term.

Who should I vote for in the District Court Judge District 40 Seat 4 (Buncombe County) race?

SpectrumVote doesn't endorse anyone or tell you how to vote. Compare each candidate's record, funding, outside spending and endorsements on this page, then decide based on the issues that matter most to you. Enter your address at spectrumvote.com to see this race next to everything else on your ballot.

When is the election?

The general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Early voting and mail-ballot deadlines vary by state; check your state or county election office.