Hardin was the incumbent County Superintendent when his 2 year term ended in 1931. The County Court had met to elect the next County Superintendent and both Hardin and Pierce were candidates and both received equal votes. The County Judge attempted to break the tie (which he could not lawfully do) and then declared there was no election. Pierce was elected in the second vote, but Hardin refused to yield the office to him. Pierce sought mandamus to get office. 2 folders.