Adams County ballot features competitive federal, state and local races

RITZVILLE — Filing week has closed in Adams County, and voters will see a crowded and competitive ballot in the 2026 election cycle, with numerous contested races at the federal, state, and local levels.

At the federal level, both U.S. Congressional Districts 4 and 5 will be on the ballot.

Congressional District 4 has drawn significant interest, with 11 candidates filing after incumbent Dan Newhouse announced he will not seek re‑election.

Congressional District 5 has 13 candidates filed, including incumbent Michael Baumgartner. One candidate withdrew from the race earlier this week and is not reflected on official candidate graphics.

Several state legislative races will also appear on the ballot.

In Legislative District 9, Representative Position 1 is uncontested, with incumbent Mary Dye running unopposed. Representative Position 2 in District 9 will be contested between incumbent Joe Schmick and challenger Karina Wallace.

In Legislative District 13, incumbent Tom Dent is running unopposed for Representative Position 1. Representative Position 2 for District 13 is a four‑candidate race. The seat was previously held by Alex Ybarra, who is now running unopposed for District 13 State Senator. The state Senate seat was formerly held by Judy Warnick, who is not seeking re‑election.

At the county level there are only three contested races; the other three races are an unopposed candidate.

The Adams County Commissioner District 3 seat and Adams County Assessor races have two candidates. The Adams County Auditor position has three candidates competing.

All judicial races in Adams County are uncontested, with candidates running unopposed.

The primary election is scheduled for Aug. 4, 2026. In races with more than two candidates, the primary will narrow the field to the top two candidates advancing to the general election. The general election will be held on Nov. 3, 2026.