Katie Shumate is running again for Kenton County magistrate, this time in a new district because of a change in county maps.
Shumate, a Republican, has served as a Kenton County magistrate since 2007. Much of her work involves officiating weddings and helping couples navigate obtaining and filing their marriage licenses.
Shumate, who currently represents District 3, is running for the District 1 seat against incumbent Stephen L.J. Hoffman in November. Kenton County completed a reapportionment of its county districts in 2023, with the new boundaries taking effect for the 2026 elections.
“My education and many years of legal experience as well as 18 years of experience providing wedding services allows me to assist couples from obtaining their marriage license through their marriage ceremony process and filing their marriage license,” she told LINK nky. “I am welcoming and accessible as well as a calming, reassuring presence to couples when they are taking this big step in their lives.”
A lifelong Kenton County resident, Shumate grew up in Fort Wright and graduated from Dixie Heights High School. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Northern Kentucky University and worked as a paralegal from 1984 to 2002.
Outside of public office, Shumate has been involved with several Northern Kentucky organizations. She has served on the Kenton County Public Library Foundation Board and helped organize fundraisers benefiting the Northern Kentucky Symphony, People Working Cooperatively and arts education programs.
She has also volunteered with St. Joseph School in Crescent Springs, Covington Catholic High School and the Carnegie in Covington.
Shumate said her decision to seek another term stems from her belief that strong marriages are an important foundation for families and communities.
She considers helping couples through the marriage process her primary responsibility as magistrate, drawing on her previous legal experience to assist with paperwork and answer questions.
Shumate said she also tries to make herself accessible to couples from different backgrounds and religious beliefs, allowing them to plan ceremonies that reflect their individual preferences.