Washington Co. Commission seat to appear on Nov. ballot after Williams’ passing

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — In November, voters in Washington County, Tennessee will choose a new commissioner to fill the vacant seat left by Suzy Williams, who passed away in June.

The Washington County Election Commission announced in a public notice that due to the vacancy, the unexpired two-year term for the position of District 9 county commissioner will be on the upcoming general election on Nov. 5.

The qualifying deadline for candidates to get on the ballot is noon on Aug. 15.

The withdrawal deadline for the race is noon on Aug. 22.

Those hoping to run as independents may acquire nominating petitions from the Washington County Election Commission Office. Those petitions must be filed by the qualifying deadline.

Candidates who are seeking a party nomination must speak with the chairman of their respective parties. Both Republican and Democratic party nominees must be certified by the election commission office by the qualifying deadline.

Chairman of the Washington County Republican Party Dr. “Turney” Williams told News Channel 11 that the party has not yet set a caucus to determine a candidate for the District 9 seat. However, Williams expects the party to announce a date in the near future so a candidate can be certified by the qualifying date.

Williams said a few people have already expressed interest in the Republican nomination who reside in District 9.

The Washington County Democratic Party announced on Monday that it will hold a caucus on Aug. 10 at 10 a.m. in the Recreation Center at Carver Park. During the caucus, Democrats will select their candidates for both the Johnson City Commission and the Washington County District 9 Commission seat.

The Democratic caucus is open to all registered voters in Washington County who identify as Democrats. The party stated anyone interested in the commission seat must live in District 9 and declare their interest by filling out an online form.

Breakfast will be provided at the Democratic Party caucus.

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