WCI Announces Endorsements for Two Local Races

Washington County Indivisible has released its official endorsements for the Washington County Board of Education and Board of Commissioners.

These endorsements follow a recent membership survey and reflect the values and priorities that guide our organization.

We're sharing the full statement with you below.

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Oct. 14, 2026: Washington County Indivisible Announces Local Endorsements Rooted in Shared Values

Washington County Indivisible believes that good government begins with shared values: accountable leadership, constructive discussion, respect for our neighbors, and a commitment to serving the entire community. Those values guide our endorsements in this November’s local elections.

In a recent WCI membership survey, members specifically requested guidance on candidates in two local races: the Washington County Board of Commissioners and Board of Education. In response, we are endorsing candidates in these races who we believe reflect our organization’s values and the leadership our community deserves.

We support leaders who welcome productive dialogue, uphold good governance, and demonstrate accountability to the people they serve. We value diversity, equity, inclusion, and racial justice. We believe every student deserves the support and resources needed to succeed, with particular attention to those with the greatest needs.

With these principles in mind, Washington County Indivisible endorses:

Washington County Board of Education: Pieter Bickford, Robin Merchant Spickler, and Linda Murray.

Washington County Board of Commissioners: Jonathan Fish, Les McIntosh, Sr., Lara A. Shepherd, David Williams, and Taj Smith.

We believe these candidates align with our values and offer an opportunity to put those principles into practice in our schools and county government. We hope these endorsements provide helpful guidance as members consider their choices.

Above all, we value the right of every eligible voter to participate and make their own decision. Whatever your choices, please make time to vote in this November’s election. Local decisions affect our classrooms, our neighborhoods, and our daily lives. Your voice matters in shaping them.

We strongly encourage early voting, which runs October 22–29, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you receive your ballot by mail, we encourage you, when possible, to return your completed ballot to an official, secure ballot drop box in Washington County. Ballots returned through a drop box must be deposited by 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 3. Visit the Washington County Board of Elections for locations and voting information.

Media contact: washingtoncountyindivisible@gmail.com​