02-08-2025
One candidate dies, another suspends campaign in separate races leading up to Aug. 5 primary election
Aug. 1—Some voters in the Lewis County primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 4, have two less candidates to consider on the ballot for Winlock mayor and Lewis County Fire District 5 commissioner in Napavine.
In primary elections, the top two candidates advance to November's general election.
On July 27, Tom Crowson, who was running for Fire District 5 commissioner, died, according to a death notice received by The Chronicle. On July 28, the Lewis County Republican Party posted a statement on its official Facebook page announcing Crowson's death.
"(The) Lewis County Republican Party mourns the loss of Tom Crowson, a good man, a good friend and a vital part of our community. Tom came to Washington state after serving as a firefighter in California. He continued in service to his community through many roles. He was part of the Lewis County Board of Equalization and was a former commissioner for Fire District 5," the Facebook post stated. "From running for Congress in 2004 to a campaign for Lewis County Assessor in 2022, Tom was always a proud Republican and worked hard to support our candidates. We will miss Tom, and we offer prayers of peace and comfort to Tootie who was always by his side."
Lewis County Chief Deputy Auditor Tom Stanton said Crowson's name can only be removed from Tuesday's primary ballot if a Lewis County Superior Court judge orders it.
Additionally, if Crowson is one of the top two candidates after the primary, his name will still be advanced to the general election on Nov. 4. The other two candidates running for District 5 commissioner in Fire District 5 are Rick LeBoeuf and incumbent Fire District 5 Commission Chairman Sam Patrick.
In the Winlock mayoral race, which started off with four candidates vying to be the South Lewis County community's next leader, America Lunsford's campaign informed The Chronicle she is no longer actively campaigning.
"Unfortunately due to an urgent personal matter, America has had to suspend her campaign as of this week, and will no longer be actively running, regardless of the primary outcome," an America for Mayor team member said in an email.
The team was asked if Lunsford was endorsing any one of the remaining three candidates.
"After some further thought, she will endorse Victoria Marincin. If America ends up winning the primary she would support a write-in campaign for Victoria in the general as well," an America for Mayor team member said in an email.
Still running for mayor in Winlock are Victoria Marincin, Winlock City Councilor Jodie Curtis and incumbent Mayor Brandon Svenson, who is seeking a second term.
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