Strand, Smith top early votes in Chelan County Commissioner District 2 Primary

CHELAN COUNTY — Preliminary results of the Aug. 4 Primary show Clint Strand and incumbent Shon Smith leading the three-way race for the Chelan County Commissioner District 2 seat.

Strand and Smith’s results place them neck and neck and on track to advance to November's general election. Early tallies show Strand with 46.25 percent of the vote (2,737 votes), leading just a hair past Smith, who has 45.54 percent (2,695 votes).

“I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who took the time to vote and make sure their voice was heard. I can’t wait to continue the conversation with our residents about how I can foster positive change in Chelan County,” said Strand in a statement to Ward Media.

Nathanial Helligso trails far behind, accumulating only 8.18 percent of the vote (484 votes).

“The results were about what I thought they would be. It was an amazing experience meeting so many amazing people in the community, but running independent is always an uphill battle,” said Helligso in a statement to Ward Media.

“Best of luck to Clint and Shon. County Commissioner is a tough job, a lot of the times your hands are tied due to unfunded mandates from Olympia,” he added. “This community has a lot of challenges as well as opportunities ahead of it. I think the deciding factor is whether our local government represents the voice of residents or small parties, groups and churches only interested in their own empowerment. We will see.”

Strand is currently serving his third term on Leavenworth City Council and is the Executive Director of Wenatchee Valley College Foundation. His previous roles include Marketing/Communications for Confluence Health and Cascade Medical, and the News Director of KOHO 101.1.

Smith was elected to the board in 2022 and became chair in 2025. He owns the Wok-About Grill locations in Wenatchee and Leavenworth, which he opened in 1997 and 2014, respectively. 

“I'm very happy that the people of District 2 have recognized the hard work I’ve been doing over the last four years for all the residents of Chelan County,” said Smith in a statement to Ward Media. “I look forward to your continued support in the General election in November. It truly is an honor to represent my home district at the county level. Thank you for your support!”

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media