HAGERSTOWN — As unofficial results roll in from the spring primaries, Washington County’s political landscape is taking shape. Here is a clear-eyed look at the races that mattered and what lies ahead for voters.
COUNTY COMMISSIONER
On the Republican side three candidates, Randy Leatherman, Curtis Reigh, and others, filed for the open seat. With no Democrats in the field the primary is expected to decide who succeeds the current commissioner. Final tallies are pending but early returns show a tight contest among Republicans.
STATE’S ATTORNEY
Republican incumbent Gina Cirincion faces a primary challenge from fellow prosecutor Adam Greivell. Both are campaigning on law enforcement credentials but hinting at sharper differences on priorities such as drug courts, mental health diversion, and public trust. Early vote reports show both candidates neck and neck.
SHERIFF
Incumbent Brian Albert and challenger Chuckie Johnson are vying for the Republican nomination. Albert, a longtime deputy, touts his experience and community ties. Johnson emphasizes reform and outreach initiatives. With no Democratic opponent the GOP primary winner is all but assured the office.
CENTRAL COMMITTEE
Party loyalists are snapping up spots on the Republican and Democratic central committees. Michael Barnes, Marc Mignogna, and Sterling Sanders lead their respective slates. These seats are low profile but often serve as springboards for future campaigns.
STATE LEGISLATURE AND CONGRESS
The Democratic appointment of Matthew Schindler to fill Delegate Brooke Grossman’s seat in District 2B means he now faces a primary challenge from Republican Thomas Stolz in what is typically a safe Republican district when the general election comes around. In the Senate District 2 primary the next opponent for incumbent Paul Corderman has not yet emerged.
What to Watch
UNOFFICIAL IS NOT FINAL
These results reflect preliminary tallies. Official certification and runoff possibilities are still weeks away.
Republican primaries will decide most offices
With few Democrats on the ballot locally most key races are effectively over with GOP voters deciding winners.
GENERAL ELECTION STILL MATTERS
Even in Republican leaning races statewide races in 2026 will drive turnout in Washington County. That makes the primary winners gearing up for bigger fights.
BOTTOM LINE
Washington County is shaping up for a predictable but still important primary season dominated by Republican voters. Open commissioner seats and hotly contested sheriff races mean local governance will be set well before November. As the primaries move toward certification expect campaigns to pivot toward general election infrastructure, fundraising, and outreach.