Primary races become clearer as Chelan County counts more ballots

WENATCHEE – Additional ballots counted Thursday increased voter turnout in Chelan County to 38% and widened the margins in several primary election races, including the closely watched contest for Chelan County commissioner.

As of 4:37 p.m. Thursday, 20,795 ballots had been counted from 55,034 registered voters, according to the Chelan County Auditor's Office. The next results update is expected Friday afternoon.

In Washington's 8th Congressional District, incumbent U.S. Rep. Kim Schrier continued to lead the field in Chelan County with 49.05% of the vote, receiving 10,015 votes. Republican Spencer Meline remained second locally with 20.36%, followed by Trinh Ha at 14.28% and Bob Hagglund at 12.45%.

Districtwide, Schrier remained the leading vote-getter while Meline continued to hold the second position for advancement to the Nov. 3 general election under Washington's top-two primary system.

Republican Brian Burnett expanded his lead in Chelan County in the race for the 12th Legislative District Position 1 seat, receiving 53.69% of the vote to Democrat Stacy Willoughby's 46.21%. Although Burnett maintained a local advantage, both candidates are expected to advance to the general election because they are the only two candidates in the race.

In the Position 2 race, incumbent Republican Mike Steele continued to lead in Chelan County with 52.37% of the vote. Republican Adam James remained second locally with 26.39%, while Democrat Maggie Adams received 21.20%. Districtwide, Steele and Adams remained on pace to advance to November.

The race for Chelan County commissioner, District 2, became less competitive after Thursday's ballot count. Republican Shon D. Smith increased his advantage over Democrat Clint Strand, receiving 3,882 votes, or 46.63%, compared with Strand's 3,743 votes, or 44.96%. Independent Nathanial Helligso received 696 votes, or 8.36%. Smith's lead grew to 139 votes after standing at just 10 votes following Wednesday's update.

Independent Britini Port continued to lead the assessor's race with 53.20% of the vote over Republican Wes Cornelius, who received 46.61%.

In the auditor's race, Brian Brett maintained a comfortable lead over fellow Republican Brandt Cappell, receiving 60.41% of the vote to Cappell's 38.52%.

Independent Sandra Arechiga continued to lead the four-candidate race for county clerk with 38.81% of the vote, followed by Republican Marty Young at 30.33%. Republican Samantha J. Thompson received 16.58%, while Charlene Beck, who states no party preference, received 14.15%. Arechiga and Young remained in position to advance to the general election.

Sheriff Mike Morrison continued to hold a commanding lead over Republican challenger Stan Langlow, receiving 75.48% of the vote to Langlow's 23.76%.

Republican Rick Viall maintained his advantage in the county treasurer's race, leading Democrat Doug Miller 51.95% to 47.89%.

In uncontested races, Republican Earl J. Crowe received 98.40% of the vote for coroner, while Republican Robert W. Sealby received 98.00% in the prosecuting attorney's race.

All results remain unofficial until the election is certified. Washington counties will continue processing ballots postmarked by Election Day before the election is certified later this month.