text: Below is an context that describes a sql query, paired with an question that provides further information. Write an answer that appropriately completes the request.  # noqa: E501
  ### Context:
  CREATE TABLE table_1342426_18 (candidates VARCHAR, incumbent VARCHAR)
  ### Question:
  How many candidates won the election of john n. sandlin?
  ### Answer:
  SELECT COUNT(candidates) FROM table_1342426_18 WHERE incumbent = "John N. Sandlin"