Voters in Jefferson County's May 19 primary election handed both incumbent county commissioners strong wins, setting up November general election matchups for each seat.

Position 1: Wunsch Wins Big

Incumbent Commissioner Mark Wunsch led the three-way race for Position 1 with approximately 58.6% of the vote, finishing roughly 20 percentage points ahead of challenger George Curtiss. A third candidate, Tony Chard, rounded out the field.

Wunsch, a familiar face in Jefferson County government, will advance to the November general election. Depending on final vote tallies and write-in filings, he may face a challenger in the fall.

Position 2: Simmelink Holds Off a Crowded Field

Commissioner Kelly Simmelink, who has served on the board since 2017, led a competitive four-candidate race for Position 2 with about 54.92% of the vote. Her challengers:

  • Ara Erdekian — 23.65%
  • Greg Mead — 13.85%
  • Bill Atherton — remainder

Simmelink's margin was decisive, but the fact that nearly half of primary voters supported someone other than the incumbent suggests the race could remain competitive heading into the fall.

Sheriff Race Goes Straight to November

The Jefferson County Sheriff's race was not on the primary ballot. Because only two candidates filed — incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock and former deputy Tyler Anderson — the race bypasses the primary entirely and goes directly to the November general election.

That race has become significantly more complicated since filing closed. Anderson's law enforcement certifications were recommended for permanent revocation by DPSST's Police Policy Committee on May 21, and the full board is set to vote on July 21. Anderson says he will appeal and remain in the race. See our separate story for full details.

What's Next

November's general election will be the main event for Jefferson County voters. All three countywide races — Sheriff, Commissioner Position 1, and Commissioner Position 2 — will be decided in the fall. Ballots in Jefferson County are typically mailed in mid-October for the November election.