With the current Thurston County Clerk Linda Enlow set to retire at the conclusion of 2026, both challengers Nicole Miller, a Democrat, and Garrett Cady, an independent, set their sights on becoming the heir to Enlow’s position.
As preliminary results began to arrive on election night on Tuesday, Nov. 3, Miller, receiving a total of 50.72 percent of votes, narrowly led over Cady — who received 48.72% of votes.
In total, Miller received a total of 40,864 votes from her constituents in Thurston County on election night, while her opponent, Cady, received 39,251 from voters throughout the county.
These results are preliminary and will be updated in the coming days and weeks ahead before the election is certified.
Miller campaigned on the idea that the closure of in-person services at the Thurston County Clerk’s Office was unnecessary. In-person services originally closed on Jan. 21, and just reopened part-time on Sept. 21.
“I hope that (voters) want my leadership in prioritizing public access, transparency and compassion,” Miller said. “Voters can have confidence in me that I am going to bring compassionate, ethical leadership to the clerk’s office. I’m going to keep the clerk’s office open to the public. That will not be negotiable. I will not balance the budget on the backs of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors. That front desk will always be open.”
She told the Nisqually Valley News on election night that she’s incredibly excited and encouraged by the initial results of the general election in Thurston County. She believes that voters are sending a clear message that they want change in the clerk’s office in Thurston County.
Miller also reiterated that her main priority remains keeping the clerk’s office opened for her constituents to utilize.
“I’m so grateful for the support,” Miller said. “This is the first time I’ve ever run for office, so it’s all new to me, this whole political experience. I’ve just been honored and humbled by the support.”
