Those interested in running for an elected position this fall have until 5 PM today, Friday, May 10, 2024 to do so.
Since Monday, 143 people have filed for the 78 offices up for election this year that Mason County registered voters will see on their ballots. The positions open this fall include two Mason County Commission seats, all three Mason County Superior Court Judge positions, U.S. Senator, U.S. Representative, 35th Legislative District State Representatives, Governor, and all other statewide elected seats as well as Precinct Committee Officers.
So far, three have filed for Mason County Commissioner District 1: incumbent Randy Neatherlin (Independent), William “Will” Harris (Republican), and Ted Jackson (Republican).
Tom Beben (who states no party preference) and Richard Beckman (Republican) are running for Mason County Commission District 2 – the seat currently held by Kevin Shutty who is not seek re-election and has taken the position as Executive Director of the Economic Development Council of Mason County.
In the 35th Legislative District, three have filed for State Representative Position 2. Incumbent Republican Travis Couture is being challenged by Democrat James DeHart and Republican Eric Onisko.
As of Thursday night, Dan Griffey, the Republican incumbent for State Representative Position 1, has not yet drawn a challenger.
So far, the incumbents for Public Utility District Commissions are running unopposed: Johnny “Jack” Janda for Mason County PUD No. 1 Commissioner District 3 and Jeff McHargue for Mason PUD 3 Commissioner District 3.
Two incumbent Mason County Superior Court Judges have filed. David Stevens for Judge Position 1 and Monty Cobb for Judge Position 2.
Tirsa Butler filed for Mason County Superior Court Judge Position 3 – the seat currently held by Dan Goodell.
The race to replace Derek Kilmer as 6th Congressional District U.S. Representative has become crowded with two Republicans, two Democrats and an Independent. The Republicans are Drew MacEwen and Janis Clark. The Democrats are Hilary Franz and Emily Randall. And the Independent is J. Graham Ralston.
The U.S. Senator race has nine candidates including incumbent Democrat Maria Cantwell.
So far, 20 have filed to be the next governor of the State of Washington.
Lt. Governor has drawn five candidates.
Six have filed for Commissioner of Public Lands.
Four for Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Seven for Insurance Commissioner.
Partisan races and races with three or more candidates will appear on the August 6th Primary Election Ballot with the top two candidates going to the November 5th General Election.
However, more people may file their declaration of candidacy today (Fri. May 10th).