Local Candidates Gear Up as Filing Period for 2026 Elections Kicks Off in May

As candidate filing week for the 2026 elections approaches in May, local residents are already announcing their intentions to run for various offices.

A NEW YAKIMA COUNTY TREASURER

Among them is Stephanie Patterson, who is seeking to become the next Yakima County Treasurer. Patterson is expected to officially announce her candidacy Thursday to succeed Ilene Thomson, who has served in the office for the past 24 years and is expected to announce her retirement this week. Patterson currently serves as the Yakima County Senior Manager for Investments and Banking, a position she has held since joining the county in 2014.

She plans to file as a Republican and has outlined her goal to enhance centralized receipting options within the county to improve efficiency in managing taxpayer funds.

A CHALLENGER FOR PROSECUTOR

In addition, a challenger has emerged for Yakima County Prosecutor. Local attorney Quinn Dalan has announced her candidacy, bringing nearly two decades of legal experience. Dalan began her career in 2008 with the Yakima County Prosecutor’s Office and established her own law firm in 2013. She emphasizes the importance of the prosecutor’s office as a partner in building a safer Yakima Valley, supporting victims, holding offenders accountable, and maintaining fairness and integrity.

Interested in running for public office in Washington? The opportunity to declare candidacies for the 2026 elections officially opens on May 4 at 8:00 am,  both online and at election offices across the state. Mailed declarations, along with payment, must be received by 5 p.m. on May 8, the close of filing week.
During the May 4-8 period, candidates can declare for more than 400 federal, state, judicial, legislative, county, and other offices scheduled for the 2026 election cycle.