Wunsch and Simmerlink Win Primary, Retain Jefferson County Commissioner Seats

By Madras Bulletin Staff • May 28, 2026 at 1:03 AM

Both Jefferson County Commissioner incumbents survived their May 20 primary challenges. Kelly Simmerlink topped 55 percent in Position 2, avoiding a November runoff, while Mark Wunsch held off a competitive field in Position 1.

Jefferson County voters delivered a message of continuity in the May 20 primary, sending both incumbent county commissioners back for another term without a runoff.

Position 2: Simmerlink Clears the Threshold

Commissioner Kelly Simmerlink, who has served Jefferson County since 2017, won her Position 2 race with 55 percent of the vote — just enough to clear the 50-percent-plus-one threshold required to avoid a November runoff. Her opponents in the four-way race included Ara Erdekian, Greg Mead, and Bill Atherton. Erdekian emerged as the runner-up with approximately 24 percent.

Simmerlink's win puts to rest what had been a potentially competitive fall race. With nearly a decade on the board, she continues as one of Jefferson County's most experienced elected officials.

Position 1: Wunsch Defeats Curtiss and Chard

Incumbent Commissioner Mark Wunsch won the Position 1 race against George Curtiss and Tony Chard. Curtiss finished as the runner-up with roughly 40 percent of the vote. Wunsch's victory was decisive enough to end the contest at the primary stage.

Looking Ahead

With both commissioner seats now settled, Jefferson County voters will turn their attention to the November general election — most notably the sheriff's race between incumbent Jason Pollock and challenger Tyler Anderson, whose law enforcement certifications were permanently revoked by state regulators on May 21 (see related story).

Oregon's primary results will be officially certified on June 25, 2026. Final vote tallies by precinct will be available from the Jefferson County Clerk's office.