Four Democrats competed for three spots on the November ballot in the race for Kent County Commissioner, while the County’s three incumbent commissioners secured the Republican nominations.

On the Democratic side, Sam Shoge led the field with 1,024 votes (31.2%). John Carroll followed with 894 votes (27.3%), and Thad Bench received 816 votes (24.9%). David Foster finished fourth with 547 votes (16.7%).

Because the top three finishers advance to the general election, Shoge, Carroll, and Bench appear poised to claim the Democratic nominations; however, Kent County election officials must still canvass outstanding mail-in and provisional ballots before certifying the results.

On the Republican side, incumbent Commissioner Ron Fithian received 895 votes (34.5%), incumbent Commissioner Albert Nickerson received 865 votes (33.3%), and incumbent Commissioner John Price received 838 votes (32.3%). With only three Republicans seeking three seats, all three incumbents advance to the November general election.

Barring significant changes during certification, incumbent commissioners Ron Fithian, Albert Nickerson, and John Price will face Democratic nominees Sam Shoge, John Carroll, and Thad Bench in November.

MACo’s election coverage and analysis rely on unofficial results published by the State Board of Elections. Official results will follow after a full accounting of pending votes. MACo advises readers that any close unofficial results are subject to realignment in the days ahead.