Brian Smith, who serves as director of economic development for Congressman Brett Guthrie and known for his penchant for wearing bow ties, will challenge incumbent Debbie Donnelly for the Hardin County clerk seat in next yearâs election. Smith, a RepubliÂcan, made his announceÂment Thursday morning in Radcliff where he was joined by roughly 50 or more friends, family and supporters, who braved the rain outside of the county clerkâs former RadÂcliff branch. The location of his announcement was no coincidence, Smith said. Should he be elected, he is committed to reopening the branch office that served northern Hardin County. He called its closure a âpoor decision.â