Six Candidates Now Declare Intentions for Washington County Commissioner Seats

Washington County voters will have a choice in the upcoming election for County Commissioner, with six individuals now having officially filed their candidacies. The election for the five-member Washington County Board of County Commissioners will take place during the general election in 2026, with each commissioner serving a four-year term. All five commissioners are elected at-large, meaning they represent the entirety of the county rather than specific districts.

Among those who have filed are incumbent Republican Randy Leatherman, who submitted his paperwork on February 25, 2025. He is joined by fellow Republicans Curtis W. Reigh, who filed on March 27, 2025, and Kaden Snyder, who filed on October 23, 2025. On the Democratic ticket, Patrick Kirby filed on November 21, 2025, and Lara A. Shepherd filed on November 13, 2025. Additionally, Taj Smith has filed a Declaration of Intent as an Unaffiliated candidate, submitting a petition on September 9, 2025, with her candidacy designated for the General Election only.

To be eligible to appear on the ballot, candidates must meet specific qualifications, including residency within Washington County. The filing process requires candidates to submit a Certificate of Candidacy and a Financial Disclosure Statement to the Washington County Board of Elections. For those seeking to appear on the primary ballot, the Certificate of Candidacy must be filed in person. Candidates are also required to establish an authorized candidate campaign committee and file a Statement of Organization, which can be done electronically or via a downloadable PDF.

The Financial Disclosure Form, which covers the preceding calendar year, is a mandatory component of the filing process. For local candidates like those running for County Commissioner, this form must be notarized to be considered valid. Failure to have the form notarized can result in the candidate’s disqualification from appearing on the ballot. Candidates may provide proof of prior filing of a financial disclosure for the required calendar year. The specific requirements for filing financial disclosures can be obtained by contacting the appropriate controlling agency. A filing fee, which varies based on the office sought, is also required and can be paid by the candidate or their campaign finance entity via check, money order, or credit card. The deadline for filing all necessary documentation to be considered for the 2026 election is Friday, February 24, 2026, by 9:00 p.m.

Primary elections will occur on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, while the general election will occur on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Early voting will be available, as well as mail-in voting.

Information about the 2026 elections and candidacy will continue to be updated in our voter guide.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from Washington County Election Board

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