County Republicans name auditor candidates to replace Wyman

The Thurston County Republicans have named three candidates to replace secretary of state-elect Kim Wyman as Thurston County auditor.

First choice is Carol Person, second choice is 2nd District Rep. Gary Alexander and third choice is Yelm Mayor Ron Harding, according to party chairman Zeke Lyen.

Wyman will become the 15th secretary of state Jan. 16, leaving her county position open until the election in November. Wyman had served as county auditor since Jan. 2001.

One of the three candidates will be chosen by the Thurston County Commissioners, according to county manager Don Krupp.

"Once the position is vacant, the board has the authority to appoint," Krupp said. "If they don't within 60 days, the decision is referred to the governor to make."

Krupp said it's up to the commissioner's to decide on the process for appointing Wyman's replacement.

The commissioners could decide to interview each of the three candidates, pick a name from the list or follow the suggested priority by the Thurston County Republicans, if a ranking is provided.

The replacement will serve as Thurston County auditor until the election in November.