Today is the day. May 19, 2026 is Oregon Primary Election Day, and Jefferson County voters have until 8 p.m. tonight to return their ballots — either in the mail (postmarked by today) or dropped into an official ballot drop box.

The Jefferson County Elections Office is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the courthouse in Madras. Drop boxes across the county accept ballots through 8 p.m.

What's on the Jefferson County Ballot

This year's primary is unusually competitive for Jefferson County. Three contested commissioner seats headline the local races:

  • County Commissioner Position 1: Incumbent Mark Wunsch faces challengers George Curtiss and Tony Chard in a three-way race. A candidate who receives a majority of votes cast will be elected outright at the primary.
  • County Commissioner Position 2: Incumbent Kelly Simmelink, who has served since 2017, is challenged by Ara Erdekian, Greg Mead, and Bill Atherton in a crowded four-person field. Again, a majority wins the seat outright.

Ballot Measures

Jefferson County voters are also deciding on three measures:

  • Jefferson County Library District Bond ($15.9 million): This measure would fund construction of new library buildings in Madras and Culver, replacing outdated facilities. The revised plan was developed after community feedback on an earlier proposal.
  • Camp Sherman Road District Levy renewal: The rural district along the upper Metolius River is asking voters to renew its existing tax levy to maintain local roads.
  • Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District Levy: One of three rural fire levies on the Central Oregon ballot, this measure would increase funding for fire protection in the Sisters and Camp Sherman area, which sits on Jefferson County's western edge.

Sheriff Race Goes to November

Notably, the Jefferson County Sheriff's race between incumbent Jason Pollock and former deputy Tyler Anderson will not be decided today — only two candidates filed, so that contest moves directly to the November general election. However, it remains one of the most closely watched races in the region, with a state certification review of Anderson scheduled for May 21.

How to Return Your Ballot

Ballots can be dropped at the Jefferson County Courthouse drop box in Madras or mailed (must be postmarked by May 19). Voters with questions can contact the Jefferson County Elections Office at (541) 475-4451.

Results will begin posting after 8 p.m. on the Oregon Secretary of State's election results website.