Who’s in line for county auditor?

Now that Kim Wyman has been elected as Secretary of State, her position as Thurston County Auditor will be vacant.

Because Wyman is a Republican, as prescribed by law, the Thurston County Republican Central Committee will put forth three names to fill the vacant position.  The Thurston County Commissioners will select one of the three to be the new county auditor and to serve until the next election.

Those mentioned so far as possible replacements include:   State Representative Gary Alexander, who is the current deputy auditor;  Dan Cathers, former chair of the Thurston County Republican party; and Kevin Bonagofski, former member of the Tenino City Council.

With three Democrats responsible for appointing a Republican is it possible that politics may play a role?  For example – – if  Democrats want to take the auditors office in the next election, would they be better off appointing the weakest Republican for the job?  Or, would they be non-partisan and appoint the best Republican for the seat?

If they can’t make a decision, the Governor’s office will do it for them.