As Election Day approaches, candidates for Thurston County Commissioner are making their final appeals to voters, focusing on key issues and their qualifications as they compete for two open seats in Districts 2 and 4. With an operating budget of approximately $474.2 million for 2025 and a population exceeding 300,000 residents, the county commission plays a critical role in local governance. The primary election limited voting to district residents, but the general election allows all county voters to weigh in, creating a potentially different outcome. In addition to these races, incumbent Commissioner Carolina Mejia is running unopposed in her re-election bid.
In the District 2 race, Independent candidate JW Foster positions his experience as a significant differentiator against Democratic opponent Rachel Dreon. Foster, who has held various public service roles including interim mayor of Yelm and city council member, emphasizes his extensive local connections and commitment to hit the ground running in office. He encourages undecided voters to engage with the League of Women Voters’ candidate forum, which he believes captures important issues facing the county. Foster underscores the importance of local elections, asserting that electing a knowledgeable and energetic candidate will lead to efficient local governance.
Opposing Foster, Dreon identifies herself as a progressive Democrat with a strong background in behavioral health services. She cites her experience in various government roles, including serving as a budget chief for the Department of Health and Human Services. Dreon expresses a deep understanding of the challenges facing Thurston County, from infrastructure to mental health and housing issues, and urges voters to recognize the importance of local elections in shaping daily life. Both candidates acknowledge that every vote counts, particularly in local elections where community impact is significant.
Foster emerged as the frontrunner in the August primary with 58% of the votes, while Dreon garnered 41%. Voters from the entire county will now participate in the general election, which could dramatically alter the results. Financial backing also plays a crucial role in the candidates’ campaigns, as evidenced by Dreon having raised over $52,500 compared to Foster’s $32,200. This financial disparity may influence voter outreach and ultimately impact the election outcome in District 2.
In District 4, the contest features incumbent Commissioner Wayne Fournier, a Democrat, against Rob Laymon, who has stated no party preference. Fournier touts his record as an effective county commissioner and seeks to leverage his experience and knowledge of local issues to secure re-election. Laymon, however, has been relatively silent in the election process, failing to respond to requests for comment and skipping a candidate forum organized by the League of Women Voters. This absence leaves voters with little to gauge his positions and candidacy.
The primary election showed Fournier with a slight lead at 51% compared to Laymon’s 48%, indicating a competitive race. As the final weeks approach, candidates from both districts are working tirelessly to solidify their messages and connect with voters. Ultimately, the outcome of these elections will influence crucial policies and services in Thurston County, affecting the residents’ daily lives and their community’s overall welfare. Both districts’ races highlight the themes of experience, community engagement, and the impact of local government, underscoring the vital role that each vote plays in shaping the future of Thurston County.
