Counting machines are ready at the Malheur County Clerk’s Office. (The Enterprise/John L. Braese)
VALE – A total of 15,043 registered voters can start checking their mailboxes soon, as the Malheur County Clerk’s office will begin mailing out ballots next Wednesday, April 25.
According to Clerk Gayle Trotter, most voters should start receiving ballots on Friday, April 27. If no ballot is received by May 4, the county clerk’s office should be contacted at 541-473-5151.
Of the 15,043 voters, 2,479 are registered as Democrats and 5,972 as Republicans. The rest declare no party affiliation or claim a third-party affiliation.
The primary ballot gives Ontario voters the hottest political item of the season.
In Ontario, 5,488 voters will be asked to decide the fate of the proposed 1 percent sales tax for the city. Groups representing both sides have been vocal and yard signs dot yards and business windows throughout the town.
Most elected officials on the ballot are running with no opposition. That includes Lung Hung, Malheur County Circuit Court judge, and Margaret Mahony, looking to continue as justice of the peace.
Cliff Bentz, in his first run at state Senate, faces no opposition in the Republican primary. Also in a first run, Lynn Findley is the lone name on the Republican side of the ballot for state representative in Malheur County.
Don Hodge, looking to continue as county commissioner, also is unopposed.
Tuesday, April 24, is the deadline for new voter registration, change of political party filings, and requests from non-affiliated voters for an Independent primary ballot.
Reporter John L. Braese: [email protected], 541-473-3377.
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