Jefferson County voters have nine days to make their choices in what may be the most contested local election in recent memory. Two seats on the Board of Commissioners are up for grabs in the May 19 primary, drawing a combined seven candidates across two races.

Position 1: Wunsch Faces Two Challengers

Commission Chair Mark Wunsch is seeking another term in Position 1, but he faces two challengers: George Curtiss, who grew up in Crooked River Ranch, and Tony Chard. Wunsch has pointed to Jefferson County's improving economic standing as evidence his approach is working — the county recently moved from the third most economically distressed county in Oregon to eighth, according to new Business Oregon data.

Curtiss has made his Crooked River Ranch roots central to his campaign, representing the growing unincorporated communities that often feel overlooked by county government centered in Madras. Chard has also entered the race, giving voters three distinct choices on the ballot.

Position 2: Simmelink vs. a Crowded Field

Incumbent Kelly Simmelink, who has held Position 2 since 2017, faces three challengers: Ara Erdekian, Greg Mead, and Bill Atherton. The four-way race is drawing significant community attention, with voters seeking fresh perspectives on issues like housing, agricultural water rights, and rural services.

Simmelink brings nearly a decade of institutional experience to the race. Her challengers have each offered different visions for the county's direction, from fiscal conservatism to increased investment in rural infrastructure.

How to Vote

Jefferson County uses vote-by-mail. Ballots must be received by the County Clerk by 8 p.m. on May 19, 2026. Drop boxes are available at the Jefferson County Clerk's office. Voters can also mail ballots — but should allow enough time for delivery before election day.

Candidate statements and voter pamphlets are available at the Jefferson County Elections office and online at jeffco.net.

Key Primary Dates

  • May 19: Primary Election — ballots due by 8 p.m.
  • May 27: Ballots received by May 26 processed at 9 a.m.
  • June 3: Information on challenged ballots available

The two commissioner races are the centerpiece of this year's primary. Because the Jefferson County Sheriff's race has only two candidates — incumbent Jason Pollock and challenger Tyler Anderson — that contest goes directly to the November general election without appearing on the May ballot.