Strengthening Our Community. Stewarding Our Future.
HOMES within REACH
The people who teach our kids, care for our neighbors, protect our safety, and keep our local businesses running are being shut out of our community. Not only do we need more affordable housing, we need more creativity and flexibility in the housing solutions we offer, and a steadfast commitment to ensuring growth pays its fair share When people can live where they work, it not only means a roof over their head, it means giving back time with family & friends, and the ability to enjoy the quality of life they work to uphold for us all.
Community can't be bought, it must be earned. We cannot rely on growth and development to make us whole; we must be committed to taking care of each other. That means affordable childcare options, reliable emergency services, access to behavioral and public health, and transportation that connects instead of frustrates us. We are stronger when we invest in our collective health, safety, and resilience.
SERVICES that WORK STEWARDSHIP of RESOURCES
Protecting clean water and wildlife isn't separate from supporting our economy—it's the foundation of what makes Teton County exceptional. We need to follow through on natural resource solutions our community has already identified, be fierce protectors of our public lands, and be honest about the effects of both new growth and aging infrastructure on the long-term health of our unparalleled natural resources.
community first & protect the soul of the Tetons.
Early Voting
July 21 - August 17
Primary Election Day August 18
“I’ve
Selecting who will serve in office could influence services
It’s up to you to decide which candidates represent their
I’ve proudly served the people of Teton County for 32 years, including 18 years in the Coroner’s office. My law enforcement and medicolegal investigative experience as Deputy Coroner have equipped me with comprehensive, field-tested knowledge, making me uniquely qualified
— Jasmine Hall
Where Teton County residents can vote
On the primary and general election days Aug. 18 and Nov. 3, residents can vote in any of the voting centers across Teton County from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early in-person voting at the Teton County Clerk’s Office in the Teton County Administration Building basement and absentee ballot voting also began July 21.
Teton County Library
125 Virginian Lane
Jackson
Teton County/Jackson Recreation Center
220 N. King St. Jackson
Old Wilson Schoolhouse Community Center
5655 Main St.
Wilson
Teton County Weed and Pest Building
7575 S. Highway 89
Jackson
Alta Branch Library
50 Alta School Road Alta, WY
Registered voters are locked into political parties
After 2023 law, party changes are cut off for registered voters in mid-May, before filing deadline.
By Jasmine Hall STATE GOVERNMENT REPORTER
Wyomingites who are already registered to vote can’t change their party affiliation before the Aug. 18 primary election.
The deadline to declare or change political parties was May 13. That was one day before any candidates could begin filing to run for office, leaving some voters unsure about which primaries would have contested races or who was running.
Now that the candidates are known, voters are still locked in to the party they selected before summer began.
For example, anyone registered as a Democrat is only able to vote in the Democratic primary. Anyone registered as a Republican will only be able to vote in the Republican primary. And anyone registered as an independent will not be able to vote in either party’s primary — and will only get a ballot if they live in Jackson for the nonpartisan Town Council race.
Teton County residents who are interested in voting can still register to vote and pick a political party for the primary election. Registering must
be done in person at the administration building up until election day. Registration at the polls on election day is also possible. Early voting began July 21.
Before 2024, Wyoming voters could change their party affiliation up to election day and at the polls. Lawmakers passed House Bill 103 during the 2023 session, which created a deadline to change or declare party affiliations.
The law was spurred by a 2022 mass exodus of Democrats who registered as Republicans in the primary to vote for former U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney. Teton County led the charge, and 75% of the county’s nearly 6,000 registered Republicans voted for Cheney. Meanwhile, Trump-endorsed challenger Rep. Harriet Hageman won 66.3% of the entire state.
Some Teton County voters in the last election called it “revenge legislation.”
Teton County Clerk Maureen Murphy told the News&Guide that despite educational campaigns and advertising about the new law in 2024, there were voters who showed up to the polls disappointed. They were either stuck in a primary they didn’t want to vote in or there was no ballot available to them.
“People were frustrated, but we just have to
Learn even more about
Teton County, statewide and federal candidates
The Jackson Hole News&Guide’s primary election voter guide is packed full of information about the competitive races in Teton County. There is more information available online about uncontested candidates and state and federal contenders. Learn more about candidates who automatically move on to the general election. Scan the QR code to the right or visit JHNewsAndGuide.com/elections.
explain that it was a law change and that if they wanted to talk to anybody, to call their legislators,” Murphy said.
Lawmakers and Secretary of State Chuck Gray have weighed tightening the deadline even more –to Jan. 1 of an election year.
There are far more competitive races at the state and federal level for the primary election, but some key decisions will still be made in Teton County.
The offices on the ballot in the primary election in Teton County include Teton County Board of County Commissioners; County Assessor; County Attorney; County Clerk; County Clerk of District Court; County Treasurer; County Coroner; County Sheriff; and Jackson Town Council.
In the Wyoming Legislature, the seats in House Districts 16, 22 and 23 and Senate District 17 are up.
Wyomingites will also select a U.S. senator and representative in Congress, governor, secretary of state, state treasurer, state auditor and state superintendent of public instruction candidates to move forward to the general election.
Contact Jasmine Hall at 307-732-7063 or state@ jhnewsandguide.com.
Check out WyoFile voter guide
One of the Jackson Hole News&Guide’s vital journalism peers in Wyoming is WyoFile.
WyoFile is Wyoming’s statewide, independent, nonprofit, public-interest news service.
This year, WyoFile created candidate surveys, with input from hundreds of readers, to inform voters ahead of Wyoming’s Aug. 18 primary election. Candidate responses, or lack thereof, are included without edits. See WyoFile’s entire 2026 Election Guide at the QR code to the right. You can support more election coverage like this with a donation to WyoFile.com/donate.
Voters won’t just have access to WyoFile’s entire survey on their website. The Jackson Hole News&Guide selected some of WyoFile’s survey answers for federal, statewide and
legislative races to complement its own questionnaires that focused on Teton County.
Candidate answers will be available on the Special Section Primary Election page and the Elections page on the Jackson Hole News&Guide website.
Democratic candidates for County Commission – Out of six candidates, three move on
to general
Karyn Chin
Lives in: Wilson Age: 41
Years in Teton County: 18
Affiliation: Democrat
Why are you running?
I’m running because, like so many who call the Tetons home, I’ve built my life here, served this community and found my purpose here. I believe we must care for the people who make this community work and the landscape that makes this place special, so future generations can thrive.
Have you run for political office before? No.
What’s your current occupation?
I’m currently running for County Commissioner full-time. My career has spanned grassroots organizing, campaign strategy and communications, along with jobs like national park
Brent Blue
Lives in: Indian Paintbrush
Age: 75
Years in Teton County: 44 years
Affiliation: Democrat
Why are you running?
To bring a common sense approach to the Commission.
ranger and restaurant server. How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county commissioner?
My career has been about helping communities get things done. I’ve worked alongside local organizations and community members to listen, solve problems, communicate clearly and build support for ideas that make people’s lives better.
What is a county commissioner’s job?
The job is to listen, solve problems and make thoughtful decisions that serve the entire community. Commissioners balance today’s needs with tomorrow’s consequences, steward public resources responsibly and bring people together to find practical solutions to complex issues.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
My priorities are: creating more opportunities for working people to call Teton County home, strengthening services that help families and workers thrive and protecting our land, water and wildlife. A strong community is one where people can stay, belong and care for the place they love.
Is Teton County headed in the “right direction” on housing? If so, why? If not, why not?
Not yet. The 2012 Comprehensive Plan set a clear vision: “Community First, Resort Second.” That vision recognizes that Teton County thrives only when the people who work here can also build lives here. We’ve made meaningful progress on housing, but we haven’t fully lived up to that commitment. Too many teachers, nurses, service workers, first
Have you run for political office before? If so, which? What was the result?
Yes, County Coroner, three times, won each.
What’s your current occupation?
Physician and business executive.
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county commissioner?
Being a long-term resident and seeing the changes in the county brings a historical perspective to planning and spending.
What is a county commissioner’s job?
To thoughtfully use the taxpayer’s money. To use a realistic approach to our housing problems.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
Absolute transparency with the public. Spending the taxpayer’s money wisely. Logically planning and housing development.
Is Teton County headed in the “right direction” on housing? If so, why? If not, why not?
responders and young families are still being priced out. We need to recommit to policies that put year-round residents at the center of our decisions while preserving the qualities that make this place extraordinary.
Jackson town councilors and Teton County commissioners often disagree. How would you approach joint meetings with the town of Jackson?
I don’t believe disagreement itself is the problem it’s how we handle it. The town and county share residents, challenges and responsibilities, so collaboration isn’t optional. I’d approach joint meetings with curiosity, respect and a focus on shared outcomes rather than competing jurisdictions. What’s an issue that the current Board of County Commissioners pays too little attention to?
I believe the county needs to do more to cultivate the next generation of community leaders. Good government depends on listening to a broad range of voices and creating pathways for people to step up and serve. My experience in grassroots organizing has shown me that leadership is not something we wait for – it’s something we nurture. We need to value the experience of those who have served while also making room for new perspectives, new energy and new leaders who are ready to contribute to Teton County’s future.
Housing mitigation fees have come under fire by state lawmakers. Do you support mitigation fees? Should the county alter the mitigation program? If so, how?
Yes, I support mitigation fees. I believe
The plan for the Virginian property was fraught with problems and needs to be completely revamped from the beginning. The county cannot spend money it does not have nor can it be everything to everyone. Jackson town councilors and Teton County commissioners often disagree. How would you approach joint meetings with the town of Jackson?
These meetings have to be approached with respect, logic and understanding other viewpoints. Both groups have Jackson/Teton County’s best interest at heart. How to get to a solution that is amenable to both groups is the crux. Personal ego has to be abandoned. What’s an issue that the current Board of County Commissioners pays too little attention to?
The Commissioners have subrogated traffic issues to WYDOT. This has become a huge problem. Traffic issues have to be addressed on an urgent basis. Traffic will only get worse. Housing mitigation fees have come under
Republican candidates for County Commission – Both move on to general
Melchor Dylan Moore, a Republican candidate for Teton County commissioner, did not respond to the News&Guide’s candidate questionnaire. Moore is one of two Republicans in the August primary election. He will move directly onto the November general election ballot.
growth should help pay for the impacts it creates. A healthy economy depends on the people who work here, and we need to ensure free market growth doesn’t externalize its costs onto our community. Housing mitigation fees are one tool to address that challenge and Amendment A gives us an opportunity to explore others. We should continue evaluating our approach to make sure it is fair, effective and supports a community where people can afford to live and thrive.
What’s your position on environmental stewardship? How can county commissioners effectively advocate for the environment?
Environmental stewardship is both a responsibility and an investment in our future. As a national park ranger, I learned the ethic of stewardship and the importance of protecting public lands and healthy ecosystems for future generations. In Teton County, our environment is inseparable from our economy and quality of life. As county commissioner, I will make science-informed decisions, protect wildlife habitat and clean water, invest in resilient infrastructure and strengthen partnerships with federal, state, nonprofit and local organizations. I believe stewardship means leaving this place better than we found it.
Do you support the version of the affordable housing project at 90 Virginian Lane that the Jackson Town Council voted against in mid-May?
Yes.
Should Teton County continue building new pathways?
Yes.
fire by state lawmakers. Do you support mitigation fees? Should the county alter the mitigation program? If so, how?
A better solution would be a property transfer tax dedicated to specific county services. Mitigation fees currently go to the general fund which disappear in the budget.
What’s your position on environmental stewardship? How can county commissioners effectively advocate for the environment?
The Teton County environment is why people who have grown up here stay, why people move here and why our tourist economy is strong. It is vital that every project, structure and event be evaluated for impact on our county.
Do you support the version of the affordable housing project at 90 Virginian Lane that the Jackson Town Council voted against in mid-May?
No.
Should Teton County continue building new pathways?
Yes.
Vicky O’Donoghue, a Republican candidate for Teton County commissioner, did not respond to the News&Guide’s candidate questionnaire. O’Donoghue is one of two Republicans in the August primary election. She will move directly onto the November general election ballot.
Melchor Dylan Moore
Vicky O’Donoghue
Democratic candidates for County Commission –
Mark Newcomb
Lives in: Kelly
Age: 59
Years in Teton County: 59
Affiliation: Democrat
Why are you running?
Promote public health and safety, protect open spaces and the environment, manage growth. House first responders, fund public health and human services, implement land use planning where necessary, improve transportation infrastructure and maintain public facilities. Address revenue shortfalls for Fire/ EMS, Parks and Recreation.
Have you run for political office before? If so, which? What was the result?
County Commissioner three times; won each time. We are an amazing community – unique in our environment, our character and our residents. It has been a deep honor to serve each and every one of you to the best of my ability. Thank you for trusting me in this role. What’s your current occupation?
Former mountain guide. Currently environmen-
tal and energy consulting, most recently for the Jackson Hole Institute, and a little bit of Nordic coaching for the Jackson Hole Ski Club. How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county commissioner?
As a mountain guide and avalanche course instructor, I worked with people to achieve goals beyond what they thought they could achieve. I learned leadership, courage, how to communicate, how to manage people and assess risk. I got the best out of my clients. I will get the best out of this community.
What is a county commissioner’s job?
Serve the community and protect the health and welfare of residents and visitors. Provide adequate public health, safety and emergency response. Maintain and improve transportation infrastructure and public facilities. Protect open spaces, wildlife habitat and water quality.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
Serve the needs of the public within budgetary constraints by: 1. Ensuring effective emergency response and promoting public health and safety. 2. Implementing land use planning to address job growth, congestion and protect rural neighborhoods. 3. Maintain functional, safe public facilities – buildings, parks, the recreation center.
Is Teton County headed in the “right direction” on housing? If so, why? If not, why not?
Generally, yes. A course correction is looming. One, with Northern South Park, we are approaching our community recognized cap on residential growth, and we should scale back incentives (zoning allowances) meant to boost supply. Two, we may have less funding for housing if the State Legislature preempts counties from imposing and collecting fees on the development of high-end housing and large commercial projects, meaning
we may have to be more targeted and fund proportionally more housing for essential workers. Voters can vote for sales tax to support housing – yes to housing supports community housing to counterbalance the growth in high-end housing.
Jackson town councilors and Teton County commissioners often disagree. How would you approach joint meetings with the town of Jackson?
In politics, disagreement is important. Resolving disagreements is more important. How to address a revenue shortf all for jointly funded departments, Fire/EMS, START and Parks and Recreation is currently the primary source of tension between the Town and County. Negotiations could focus on asking voters to switch one penny of project-specific sales tax to general sales tax, bolstering Town revenue while allowing the County to ease property taxes. This general penny would allow Town to meet their portion of joint department funding while town and county residents would see slightly lower property taxes. I support this win-win resolution.
What’s an issue that the current Board of County Commissioners pays too little attention to?
At least two issues: One, maintaining vital facilities and transportation infrastructure. We are good at building stuff, less so at maintaining it. Spring Gulch road, the recreation center aquatic facilities, pathways, parks, the aging administration building – all need attention. With the new Justice Center on track, it is time to address infrastructure before it fails. Two, currently legal foreign-born residents feel threatened. We can support services and work with the Sheriff to better address their needs. And third: improve the energy efficiency of our built environment and reduce energy costs.
Housing mitigation fees have come under fire by state lawmakers. Do you support mitigation fees? Should the county alter the mitigation program? If so, how?
Yes. Job growth outpaces construction of local housing forcing up to 15,000 workers/day to commute from outside the community, causing traffic jams and imperiling wildlife. Even outside of Teton County, they live in the ecosystem that we seek to protect, impacting it both where they live and while they travel to and from work. Modest mitigation fees have a clear nexus to community welfare by funding housing to keep them here, in town, near services and off roadways that bisect habitat. However, houses under 3,000 square feet and small businesses needing to expand or change the use of an already leased space should not incur mitigation fees.
What’s your position on environmental stewardship? How can county commissioners effectively advocate for the environment?
Strong advocate. I have said no to development plans and commercial uses that impact rural lands, fought for the SPET tax to fund open space, and challenged unnecessary ski resort expansion where it impacts habitat. Permanent conservation of private land through private efforts is the best way to protect agricultural land and the environment. That requires an ability to work with private landowners and a working knowledge of land development regulations that incentivize such conservation efforts. We have work to do in this realm, and my 18 years working in this arena equip me well for the task ahead.
Do you support the version of the affordable housing project at 90 Virginian Lane that the Jackson Town Council voted against in mid-May?
Yes.
Should Teton County continue building new pathways?
Yes.
DR.RUSSELL NELSON
ProvenExperience: 5yearsas
DeputyCoroner,then5yearsas
ChiefDeputyCoroner
PeopleFirstApproach: Guides familieswithcompassion,honesty, andclearcommunicationthrough oneoflife'shardestmoments
ForensicAnthropologist: 40+ yearsofdeathinvestigation experience,includingHurricane Katrinaresponse,overseas archeologicalfieldworkin Mongolia,Brazil,andGuam,and high-profilenationalinvestigations
CommunityFocus: Supports collaborationbetweenlocallaw enforcementandpublichealth,a morguebuilttonational standards,anddisaster preparedness
LifelongLocal: TetonCounty native,continuingfamilylegacyof servicetothevalley
Democratic candidates for County Commission – Out of six candidates, three move on to general
Wes Gardner
Lives in: Game Creek
Age: 48
Years in Teton County: 30
Affiliation: Democrat
Why are you running?
Our community faces significant challenges, and I am a problem solver. The Comp Plan gives us good direction, but we need leaders with practical experience to implement effective solutions. My time in office has confirmed the importance of my voice.
Have you run for political office before? If so, which? What was the result?
This is my fourth campaign for Teton County Commissioner. Although I ran and lost in 2018 and 2020, I learned the process and more importantly the issues. I successfully ran as a Democrat in 2022 and have appreciated the opportunity to represent Teton County over the past four years.
What’s your current occupation?
I opened Teton Toys on the Town Square in 2010, a second one in Lehi, UT in 2015 and
three more around Salt Lake City in 2021. Currently, I run these stores and serve as commissioner.
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county commissioner?
Being a business owner and acting as a county commissioner both require that I get things done, often with imperfect information and challenging circumstances. They also require clear communication and thoughtful decision-making. These skills serve me well in my capacity as County Commissioner.
What is a county commissioner’s job?
In the most basic sense, a Teton County commissioner is elected to represent the people, attending meetings, digesting staff reports, meeting with the public, engaging with staff, and most importantly making good decisions. By definition, we won’t always agree, but I strive to always explain the logic behind my decisions.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
The top issues facing Teton County are preserving our ecosystem, developing affordable housing, and reducing congestion on our roads. If elected, I will continue to work for clean water and mitigating fire risk, make tough choices with our limited housing dollars, and develop our transit and transportation networks.
Is Teton County headed in the “right direction” on housing? If so, why? If not, why not?
The project at 90 Virginian Lane is a perfect example of what can go wrong when local governments come to rely too heavily on public-private partnerships. I support the project at 90 Virginian Lane, but I can no longer support a partner who continues to ask for more public subsidy while dramati-
cally reducing the affordability of the project for t he community. It is time for our leaders to simply deliver these projects ourselves, maintain ownership of the asset and use the revenue it generates either to increase affordability of current units or to build the next deed-restricted project.
Jackson town councilors and Teton County commissioners often disagree. How would you approach joint meetings with the town of Jackson?
While currently living in Game Creek, I lived in town for years and I own a business in town. Strangely enough, I tend to agree with the council more frequently than I do with my commission, especially regarding joint department funding. The county continues to argue that the population split (54/46) is the fair way to fund joint departments. At the outset, I proposed moving forward with a 60/40 county/town split. I continue to suggest that simply agreeing to such a split and moving on would serve both entities and the community much better than this protracted and fruitless negotiation.
What’s an issue that the current Board of County Commissioners pays too little attention to?
We often forget that the town is part of the county. This is particularly evident as we negotiate joint department funding. In arguing for the 54/46 population split, the county is suggesting that it has zero financial responsibility to those county taxpayers who happen to live in town for funding these departments. As a result, town operates at a deficit, only balancing its budget by spending down reserves or raising taxes. Town would have to raise taxes by two mills on its residents to cover the deficit. By contrast, the county would only need to raise half a mill.
Housing mitigation fees have come under fire by state lawmakers. Do you support mitigation fees? Should the county alter the mitigation program? If so, how?
Not only do I support the collection of mitigation fees, I also support the logic behind their collection. If the state disallows the mitigation program, the county will suffer significant loss of housing-dedicated revenue (roughly $2M/ year), and developers in town will no longer be required to build the workforce units necessary to serve their projects. In an attempt to preserve mitigation, the commission recently increased the exemption, under which no fees are charged, to 3,000 square feet. I pushed for 3,500. Diversifying the revenue streams dedicated to housing programs for our workforce remains a top priority for me.
What’s your position on environmental stewardship? How can county commissioners effectively advocate for the environment?
Like so many others, I moved to Jackson for the mountains, rivers, forests and wildlife. Protecting the wild places will always be close to my mind and heart. While we still have much to do, we’ve made good progress on wildlife crossings, especially south of town and at the 22/390 intersection. Sewer connections in the floodplain are imminentin Wilson, on North 89 and on the Munger line to the south. Climate change represents the biggest threat to our ecosystem. Deploying a more effective and efficient START system remains key to reducing emissions, traffic and vehicle wildlife collisions.
Do you support the version of the affordable housing project at 90 Virginian Lane that the Jackson Town Council voted against in mid-May?
No.
Should Teton County continue building new pathways?
Yes.
Democratic candidates for County Commission –
Luther Propst
Lives in: West Jackson, Indian Trails
Age: 67
Years lived in Teton County: 14
Affiliation: Democrat
Why are you running?
I’ve spent eight years delivering results: protecting public lands, wildlife and water quality; strengthening public safety; and working to ensure people who make this community work can continue to live here. There are limits to growth in Teton County; I have the experience and willingness to do so.
Have you run for political office before? If so, which? What was the result?
I am running for my third term. I have been elected twice previously to this office. What’s your current occupation?
I am county commissioner, which I am able to treat as a full-time job. My earlier career was in conservation; protecting public lands and advocating for sound land use throughout the North American West, primarily helping communities protect their quality of life while
thoughtfully managing growth and change. How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county commissioner?
In 1997, I co-authored Balancing Nature and Commerce in Gateway Communities, which addresses the same challenges Teton County faces. My decades of experience helping Western communities navigate growth has provided a strong foundation for the critical thinking and informed problem solving required of a county commissioner.
What is a county commissioner’s job?
The job is to listen, weigh competing interests, think long term and make decisions that reflect the long-term values of the community rather than bowing to the loudest or most powerful special interests. Good policy must protect what we all value while adapting to inevitable change.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
Conservation — Protect public lands, wildlife and water quality. Public Safety and Community Health — support those who keep our community safe by investing in first responders, wildfire preparedness and social services. Housing and Infrastructure — address workforce housing, transportation and water infrastructure.
Is Teton County headed in the “right direction” on housing? If so, why? If not, why not?
First, we should decouple workforce housing from new commercial or residential growth. Too often, workforce housing is a function of new growth, which is simply running on a hamster wheel, not solving the problem. We need to house the teachers, hospital employees, first responders, social service providers, retail workers and others who make this com-
munity function, rather than subsidize new development. Second, we should put more emphasis on preserving the naturally affordable housing we already have. Preservation, reuse, adaptation is generally cheaper, quicker and better aligned with other community values than new construction.
Jackson town councilors and Teton County commissioners often disagree. How would you approach joint meetings with the town of Jackson?
The town and county have different legal responsibilities, but we share one community. On issues like housing, transportation, public safety and infrastructure, success requires working together. We don’t always agree, but we should collaborate respectfully and focus entirely on the public interest. We can disagree without assuming bad intent or compromising productive working relationships. Life is too short for allowing disagreement to morph into grudges. I’ve learned that the best outcomes come when we build relationships, solve problems together, and remember that we’re all working toward the same goal: a stronger Teton County.
What’s an issue that the current Board of County Commissioners pays too little attention to?
We need to pay more attention to the relationship between job growth and demand for housing as well as transportation, infrastructure and community character. We need to be more intentional about the kind of growth we encourage, what kind of jobs are created and ensure they align with our capacity to support it. If we continue creating jobs, we will inevitably continue to fall behind. That’s why I advocate for policies that better align job creation with workforce housing, infrastructure and long-term community sustainability. Growth should strengthen our community, not outpace our ability to sustain it.
Housing mitigation fees have come under fire by state lawmakers. Do you support mitigation fees? Should the county alter the mitigation program? If so, how?
Yes. I support housing mitigation fees because new development creates demand for roads, parks, schools, as well as workforce housing. Developers should help pay for these costs; otherwise the cost falls unfairly on the taxpayers. It’s fair and reasonable – and constitutional – to require developers to help offset the cost of these needs. At the same time, mitigation programs should be adjusted when necessary. We’ve recently increased the minimum home size subject to mitigation fees from 2,500 to 3,000 square feet. This better aligns the program with its goals. We should continue to refine fees as necessary to improve effectiveness.
What’s your position on environmental stewardship? How can county commissioners effectively advocate for the environment?
Environmental stewardship is central to my tenure on the County Commission. My record shows that I have been a consistent voice for protecting Teton County’s public lands, wildlife, water quality, and natural systems. I have advocated for stronger conservation policy every step of the way. I have also led efforts to ensure the county actively communicates our community’s values to our federal and state partners, because so much of what matters here depends on decisions made beyond county government.
Do you support the version of the affordable housing project at 90 Virginian Lane that the Jackson Town Council voted against in mid-May?
Yes.
Should Teton County continue building new pathways?
Yes.
PRIMARY ELECTION
01-01 SOUTH OF JACKSON
The following precincts 01-12, 04-01, 04-03 have the same races appear as the sample below, however names will not be in the same order as they are rotated by precinct on the official ballots. Precinct Committee people will be different per precinct.
SAMPLE
01-04
The following precincts 01-05-02, have the same races appear as the sample below, however names will not be in the same order as they are rotated by precinct on the official ballots. Precinct Committee people will be different per precinct.
SAMPLE
DEMOCRAT
EAST
The following precincts 01-05-01, 01-06, 01-11 have the same races appear as the sample below, however names will not be in the same order as they are rotated by precinct on the official ballots. Precinct Committee people will be different per precinct. 01-03
The following precincts 01-07, 01-10, 02-01, 03-01,
02, 04-04, 05-01 have the same races appear as the
Precinct Committee people will be different per precinct.
SAMPLE BALLOTS
Please visit the Teton County Clerk’s office website for your specific ballot listed with specific precinct committeemen and women.
Democratic candidates for County Commission – Out of six candidates, three move on to general
Ali Dunford
Lives in: Alta
Age: 37
Years lived in Teton County: 14
Affiliation: Democrat
Why are you running?
Founding Hole Food Rescue forever connected me to this community and ecosystem. I’m running to defend one of the last large, intact ecosystems on Earth and keep our community from being dismantled by unchecked growth and inequality.
Have you run for political office before? No.
What’s your current occupation?
Program Director at Teton Resilience Network and farmer at Cosmic Apple Gardens.
Independent
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county commissioner?
The relationships I built through Hole Food Rescue with community, nonprofits, business and local government will make me an effective collaborator on the commission. My work on global social and environmental issues taught me to think in systems and make responsible decisions grounded in wide boundaries and long time horizons. What is a county commissioner’s job?
To steward public funds and infrastructure; to keep our community safe and supported; to make decisions in respect and reciprocity with the land, water and animals we share our home with.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
1. Building our community’s resilience to climate change, wildfire and other emerging risks. 2. Strengthening community wellbeing and belonging through affordable housing, robust social services and accessible public, non-commercial gathering spaces. 3. Reining in the growth that privatizes profits and socializes losses.
Is Teton County headed in the “right direction” on housing? If so, why? If not, why not?
Both…and. Our Comprehensive Plan set a goal of housing 65% of our workforce locally, the minimum needed to maintain community character, cohesion and wellbeing. In 2015 we were at 60%; in 2025 we
candidate for County Commission
Alex
Muromcew
Lives in: South Park
Age: 61
Years in Teton County: 17
Affiliation: Independent
Why are you running?
I care deeply about this community, and I am very disappointed by current leadership and the lack of long-term strategic thinking. It is time for fresh ideas, not four more years of the same.
Have you run for political office before? If so, which? What was the result?
I ran in 2018 for House District 23 and nar-
rowly lost to Andy Schwartz. In 2022, I ran unsuccessfully for county commissioner.
What’s your current occupation?
I have served as a Teton County Planning Commissioner for the past seven years. I also serve on two start-up boards, and in the winter I work as a ski patroller at Snow King.
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county commissioner?
My past professional experience including private, non-profit and governmental board work has taught me a few key lessons.
1) Do your homework and be prepared. 2) Listen. 3) Work collaboratively with other constituents to achieve the goal. 4) Know what the goal is! 5) Don’t let ideology or ego get in the way.
What is a county commissioner’s job?
“The buck stops here.” The five commissioners run the county for the benefit of its residents and tax payers. The voters vest the county commissioners with an important duty. We set the budget, handle development issues and set the direction for the county.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
1) Deliver superior results in providing workforce and affordable housing. We deserve better results from the money and time expended
were at 57%. We’re missing the mark and moving the wrong direction. We’re losing affordable housing faster than we’re building it and need to aggressively protect existing affordable units from getting turned into luxury units (most recent example – 150 W. Kelly proposal). We have good projects in the pike we need to get across the finish line; however more is needed.
Jackson town councilors and Teton County commissioners often disagree. How would you approach joint meetings with the town of Jackson?
Kindness and curiosity as first principles. I already have collaborative relationships with several councilors and commissioners, relationships I’d continue to invest in if elected. Trust and respect are what make it possible to work through disagreements. I also support bringing in neutral facilitation and mediation for when needed.
What’s an issue that the current Board of County Commissioners pays too little attention to?
How global geopolitical, social and ecological crises compound and interact, and what that means for our community’s resilience. COVID exposed how dependent we are on fragile, far-flung supply chains for everything – food, medical supplies, building materials – an exposure that hasn’t gone away. Geopolitical instability, ecological disruption, and supply chain fragility are linked in ways siloed, short-term decision-making isn’t built to see. We should be investing in local food and energy resilience, climate adaptation, a
–
more diversified economy, and not assume the stability of the last few decades will continue.
Housing mitigation fees have come under fire by state lawmakers. Do you support mitigation fees? Should the county alter the mitigation program? If so, how?
Yes, I support housing mitigation fees. The county should continue to defend our mitigation fees in Cheyenne.
What’s your position on environmental stewardship? How can county commissioners effectively advocate for the environment?
It’s nonnegotiable. We’re members of this ecosystem, not separate from it, and we depend upon our ecosystem’s health and function for our wellbeing and survival. Decisions that dismantle ecosystem health for short-term economic gain are category errors. Commissioners can effectively advocate for the environment by consistently giving the ecosystem a voice in the decision-making process. Sustainability and ecosystem stewardship should be a criterion that every decision is filtered through.
Do you support the version of the affordable housing project at 90 Virginian Lane that the Jackson Town Council voted against in mid-May?
Yes.
Should Teton County continue building new pathways?
Yes.
Will appear on general election ballot
so far. 2) Focus on water quality and quantity. We are in a drought and our streams are impaired. 3) Balance growth and conservation. Is Teton County headed in the “right direction” on housing? If so, why? If not, why not?
No. The town and county have proved difficult for private developers to work with which has delayed projects and driven up costs. Also, there has been too much emphasis on quantity of units built without thinking about how to provide a housing pathway for people to stay in the county and raise families. We need to ask ourselves, is the goal of housing 65% of our workforce within the county realistic?
Jackson town councilors and Teton County commissioners often disagree. How would you approach joint meetings with the town of Jackson?
These differences in opinion should be worked out ahead of time not aired in the meeting itself.
What’s an issue that the current Board of County Commissioners pays too little attention to?
Water quality. The BCC has kicked this can down the road for years. Yes, it is complicated and it will cost money, but the problem is too important to keep ignoring.
Housing mitigation fees have come under fire by state lawmakers. Do you support mitigation fees? Should the county alter the mitigation program? If so, how?
I support mitigation fees. It is one of several tools the county has to address the affordable housing shortage. As a county planning commissioner, we just raised the threshold for housing mitigation fees for private homes from 2,500 square feet to 3,000 to reduce the burden on the middle class here.
What’s your position on environmental stewardship? How can county commissioners effectively advocate for the environment?
Environmental stewardship should be a factor in every issue before the BCC and in every decision. For the past seven years, as a county planning commissioner, I have consciously worked to balance conservation and growth in every decision I voted on.
Do you support the version of the affordable housing project at 90 Virginian Lane that the Jackson Town Council voted against in mid-May?
No.
Should Teton County continue building new pathways?
Yes.
Democratic candidates for County Coroner - Out of the two candidates, one
David Hodges
Lives in: Melody Ranch
Age: 67
Years in Teton County: 43
Affiliation: Democrat
Why are you running?
Because I want to continue my service to the community and the Coroner’s Office. Utilizing my years of experience, hard earned skills and tra ining as a Board Certified Death Investigator. I’m committed to helping people navigate the extremely difficult experience of losing a loved one through a comprehensive investigation.
Have you run for political office before? If so, which? What was the result?
In 2014, I ran for county coroner. I lost the election to Dr. Blue, the current county coroner.
What’s your current occupation?
I’m currently employed with the Teton County Coroner’s Office as a deputy coroner. I retired from the Teton County Sheriff’s Office, Feb. 2023. How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county coroner?
I have been involved with the Teton County Coroner’s Office for 18 years. Through years of death investigation, which included over 28 years with the Teton County Sheriff’s Office, I have gained the knowledge, skills, experience and training. It has prepared me for this opportunity to guide the team of the Coroner’s Office. What is the coroner’s job?
The primary role of a coroner is to determine the cause and manner of death. That is accomplished by a comprehensive investigation by the coroner/death investigator. We conduct these investigations with compassion and respect for the decedent. However, there are many statutory requirements.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
Ensure the highest level of death investigation by offering staff professional development through training, specialized opportunities, and educational resources; implement a critical stress/incident and mental health program for staff; and advocate for physical and technological upgrades to the morgue facility. How would you approach dealing with law enforcement agencies and other entities?
I have been working with law enforcement as a team for many years in the role of deputy
coroner. We coordinate efforts at the scene. Both agencies participate in the workload. Together we share our information and experience and resources. As a team, we accomplish the challenging and stressful tasks of a death investigation.
What, if anything, would you do differently than the current administration? I predict no significant paradigm change. The deputy coroners are dedicated and experienced death investigators. The citizens of Teton County are fortunate to have such specialized staff. If I am honored to be elected the next coroner of Teton County, I would continue to enhance and support our team, through training and educational opportunities, resource improvements, commitment to personal and career development and professional partnerships. Dr. Blue has always been an advocate of such training and educational opportunities. Together, as a team, we would set our sights on continued betterment and advancement as death investigators.
Should the county build a new morgue in Adams Canyon? Why or why not?
I’m open to compromise and alternatives. However, if constructed, Adams Canyon is the logical building site for a new morgue. I would support that location. We, as a community, as county government, should carefully consider all options, including a dedicated new building for the morgue, or perhaps a modern overhaul of the present facility. With honest and earnest conversations, I do believe we, as a community, will reach a reasonable and well thought out course of action for either a new facility or the renovation of the present
morgue. The topic should remain on the table and open to discussion.
If you support a new morgue, how would you advocate for funding the project?
If elected, I would certainly look forward to continuing constructive dialogue with county commissioners about improvements and/ or funding a new facility. However, I would underline the need for at least some basic upgrades in the present morgue: proper drainage in the floor to enhance cleanliness, improve the plumbing in the autopsy suite and update evidence custody with record-keeping technology. All of this has to be weighed by fiscal responsibility. Explore federal grant opportunities, perhaps coupled with a county capitol improvement fund, a possible SPET initiative, then the funding mechanism can be combined, instead of stand alone.
How would you balance communicating information to the public with protecting privacy when notable deaths happen in the community?
Certain privacy issues of the decedent are protected by the state of Wyoming. The coroner can release the name of the decedent, location of death, cause and manner of death, age, gender and home address. Depending on the circumstances of the death other pertinent information will be released. Although, there are death investigations (suspicious in nature) that would be tainted or adversely affected with the release of specific facts or details. To protect the integrity of the investigation, there will be rare occasions that not all facts should be released. Those exceptions excluded, communication with the public is always the best policy.
Community
Bringing us together to identify and address our challenges
¼ Founder and Executive Director — Charture Institute
¼ Founder, Summit Management Consulting
¼ Founder, 1% for the Tetons
¼ Founder, Sustaining Jackson Hole
¼ Author, Jackson Hole Compass
Economy
Enabling our community’s 21st Century economy by updating its 20th Century operating system
Environment
Practicing and funding stewardship — not just talking about it
¼ Publisher, Editor, and Contributor, Tetons Mosaic , and The Coming Climate
¼ Helped found Silicon Couloir, the support network for local entrepreneurship
¼ First to identify Teton County having America’s highest income AND America’s greatest wealth gap
¼ Decades of work advocating for affordable housing in Northern Rockies
¼ 8 years on Town Council (first elected in 2018)
¼ 8 years as St. John’s Health Trustee
¼ 20+ years as newspaper columnist analyzing growth and change affecting the Valley
¼ 39-year resident of Jackson Hole
Democratic candidates for County Coroner - Out of the two candidates, one moves on to general
Katrina Clauson
Lives in: Wilson Age: 42
Years in Teton County: 16
Affiliation: Democrat
Why are you running?
I’m passionate about serving our community with dignity, grace and respect. Absent leadership threatens to lower our standard of care, while better support for our deputies, as well as partnerships with other county offices will absolutely lower our rate of suicide and addiction. Harm reduction saves lives.
Have you run for political office before?
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county coroner?
There is a common misconception that our current coroner is investigating cases, performing autopsies and working with families, law enforcement and first responders. The deputy coroners are doing this work on their cases, from start to finish. I am prepared to serve as coroner, because I am already doing the work.
What is the coroner’s job?
The coroner (should) lead in the investigation of sudden, unexpected, unattended or suspicious deaths, rule on cause and manner, manage the investigation into circumstances, attend autopsies, work with the bereaved, law enforcement and first responders, and maintain integrity, dignity and transparency of the office.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
I would love for us to have a larger facility, and I will work with the county to make that facility happen. However, to maintain our standard of care, we must make updates to the tech in our current space. I will foster a team dynamic with my deputies, as well as work with county partners to reduce preventable deaths.
How would you approach dealing with
I want to continue to actively grow those partnerships by participating in trainings and interagency educational growth. I believe that the Coroner’s Office stands beside law enforcement and first responders, not behind them.
What, if anything, would you do differently than the current administration?
I believe we miss opportunities to be involved in interagency partnerships, because Brent doesn’t see the value – working with the health department on suicide prevention, Teton Interagency Peer Support, meeting with the deputies as a team and attending postmortems. Our team of deputies are well trained and work extremely hard for the people of Teton County, and they could use more support – both mentally and with better resources in our morgue. Brent has allowed us to do our work without ever micromanaging, but he is physically not a present coroner.
Should the county build a new morgue in Adams Canyon? Why or why not?
I absolutely think we need a new facility, with our growing population, and the amount of visitors the travel and tourism board is bringing here. Our current facility is certainly not “ghoulish,” but we will need more physical space. We need to make repairs to and upgrades while we wait for
will begin affecting our standard of care. Our patients should not be less important than living patients at St. John’s.
If you support a new morgue, how would you advocate for funding the project?
I would first meet with the commissioners and advocate for funding; this will certainly be a multi-year process, and I’m not willing to passively sit and wait for a new facility. I believe that there are options through granting, state and county funds – but I will meet with the commissioners first to determine the best, most immediate route to funding.
How would you balance communicating information to the public with protecting privacy when notable deaths happen in the community?
The privacy and dignity of the deceased and their bereaved loved ones have always been and will always be my top priority –but I believe that our community deserves to know when there is a threat to life – i.e. mental health data and when dangerous narcotics are circulating. Protecting patient privacy is paramount, while working with the local media to make sure correct information is provided to the community, not through social media and speculation. I would also work with our fantastic first responders and law enforcement to continue to keep our scenes tight, for our patients.
Republican candidates for County Coroner - Out of the
Russell Nelson
Lives in: Town of Jackson Age: 67
Years in Teton County: On and off entire life, always been home
Affiliation: Republican
Why are you running?
Because I believe every family in our community deserves compassionate, thorough and professional service during one of life’s most difficult moments.
Have you run for political office before? If so, which? What was the result?
Yes (2014). Coroner. Dr. Blue won, then hired me.
What’s your current occupation?
Chief Deputy Coroner for Teton County.
Lives in: Near base of Snow King
Age: 48
Years in Teton County: 26
Affiliation: Republican
Why are you running?
To improve the leadership and morale in the office, to create a chain of custody for evidence, fix broken equipment, purchase supplies needed to do the job, be part of a team and work with the deputies more frequently, more support/contact with families who have experienced a death, give women a stronger
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county coroner?
Job and training the past decade, also the last 40 years examining countless sets of human remains with time since death ranging from a few hours to several thousand years, fresh to decomposed, burned, skeletonized, fragmentary or dismembered, to address questions of demographics, causation and process. What is the coroner’s job?
Investigating sudden, unexpected, unattended, suspicious deaths: accidents, suicides, homicides, overdoses and public health concerns. Determining cause and manner of death. Scene investigation. Identification of deceased. Coordination of autopsies or other services. Notifying next of kin. Safeguarding personal property of the deceased. Issuing death certificates and reports.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
Morgue: Current facility outdated and inadequate for the dignity and professionalism our community deserves. Team building: through regular team meetings, ongoing training, and a supportive work culture. Emergency Preparedness: Our county-wide Mass Fatality Plan should mesh with the county-wide Emergency Operations Plan, be anticipatory and flexible.
How would you approach dealing with law enforcement agencies and other entities?
A strong working relationship between law enforcement and the Coroner’s Office is built on mutual respect, clear communication and
support in this office.
Have you run for political office before? No. This is my first experience.
What’s your current occupation?
I am part owner of Grand Teton Funeral Home in Jackson and Driggs, Idaho.
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as county coroner?
Already serve community 24/7, time management, confidentiality, working with families. Notify law enforcement/coroner with suspicious things that might have been overlooked. Draw blood for the deputies and take pictures when needed. Have a broad understanding of the laws concerning death and legalities of final disposition.
What is the coroner’s job?
Pronounces a death, identifies the person who died, notifies the next of kin of the death, collects evidence with law enforcement, takes custody of the body until it is released, identifies the cause and manner of the death.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
More interaction in doing the job with deputies, creating a chain of custody, pooling
shared commitment to truth and justice. What, if anything, would you do differently than the current administration?
I respect Dr. Blue’s years of service to Teton County. His expertise and leadership have driven the development of a skilled and compassionate coroner’s staff. If elected, I would build on that foundation, continuing to emphasize compassionate, science-based investigations. I advocate strengthening collaboration with local private and public agencies to support affected communities, enhancing staff training for the challenging scenes common here and focusing on efficient case closure to minimize stress on grieving families. I would also prioritize proactive disaster planning given our tourism and outdoor recreation demands. Our goal is thorough, respectful investigations that serve justice and our community.
Should the county build a new morgue in Adams Canyon? Why or why not?
Yes, I support updating to a modern, purposebuilt facility. The current morgue, a converted garage, has significant limitations in space, equipment, safety and dignity for the deceased and staff. A new facility would improve working conditions, allow for better evidence handling and autopsies, support growing caseloads and provide an environment for family viewing and consult. Locating at the Adams Canyon area makes sense for operational continuity and proximity to other county services. This is a matter of public health, safety, and respect – how we care for the deceased reflects our community values. If you support a new morgue, how would
resources with other community members to help the office function better.
How would you approach dealing with law enforcement agencies and other entities?
I’m not afraid to ask questions or for help. I think it is necessary to learn from others. I would treat them as a team player and with respect.
What, if anything, would you do differently than the current administration?
Be “on call” and work shifts with the deputies, fix broken equipment, buy needed equipment to do the job in the office, let deputies sign death certificates, create and implement a chain of custody, work as a team and mentor each other, let deputies have input for decisions being made, more one on one contact with families, bring morale up in this office, show appreciation for what everyone does and accomplishes. Having camaraderie and supporting one another, paying for indigent cases more appropriately following certain guidelines.
Should the county build a new morgue in Adams Canyon? Why or why not?
Not at this time. This office functions as it is intended to for autopsies, body storage and work space. It is not good for family ID’s or
you advocate for funding the project? I would advocate for transparent, data-driven budgeting that demonstrates the facility’s necessity for public safety and efficiency. This includes working with the Board of County Commissioners, presenting costbenefit analyses (e.g., long-term savings from reduced maintenance and improved operations), and exploring phased funding or grants where available. I would engage the public through community meetings to build support, emphasizing that this is an essential service, not a luxury. Prioritizing fiscal responsibility, perhaps by evaluating multi-use options or partnerships ensures taxpayer dollars are used wisely. As coroner, I would provide factual input on operational needs without overstepping into broader county priorities. How would you balance communicating information to the public with protecting privacy when notable deaths happen in the community?
Wyoming law strictly governs what can be released (typically name, age, cause and manner of death once family is notified). I would adhere rigorously to these statutes while committing to timely, accurate updates when appropriate. The balance comes from compassion: Prioritize notifying families first, then provide the public with verified facts to reduce rumors, especially in high-profile cases. I would coordinate with law enforcement and use clear channels (e.g., official statements) for releases. Privacy remains paramount – no unnecessary details about circumstances or personal information. In my view, transparency builds trust, but never compromises dignity or ongoing investigations.
spending time with a loved one. Since I am part owner of the funeral home, bring the deceased to my facility and let the family have a better environment to be with their loved one. The person can have their hair brushed, eyes closed, mouth closed and be draped with blankets. It’s a better lasting memory picture for everyone involved.
If you support a new morgue, how would you advocate for funding the project? Making it a vote as a special purpose excise tax to the community.
How would you balance communicating information to the public with protecting privacy when notable deaths happen in the community?
Rules need to be followed that are set out by the Wyoming Board of Coroners. Rules are also governed by state law and need to be followed. A person would need to consult with different entities to determine what can be shared with the public (such as if the deceased had a communicable disease that puts the community at risk for being sick –you would get advice on what can and should be released to the public from sources like the Teton County Health Department and the CDC). Confidentiality and HIPPA shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Most Teton County candidates unchallenged
Fourteen are moving directly on to the general election.
Many of the candidates running for an office in Teton County will move directly onto the November general election.
Only the Democratic candidates for Teton County Board of County Commissioners and Republican and Democratic candidates for the Teton County Coroner’s Office face contested races.
These other 14 candidates will not face challengers in the Aug. 18 primary, but they will be on the ballot.
To find out more about who they are, read their biographies and about their experience in the community and approach to governance online. The Jackson Hole News&Guide has included their entire answers to primary election questionnaires on its Elections and Primary special section pages.
These candidates will also be given the opportunity to answer a questionnaire for the Nov. 3 general election.
County Assessor
Ashlee Nader (Democrat)
Norman Mellor III (Republican)
County Attorney
Richard “Dick” Stout (Democrat)
County Clerk
Maureen “Mo” Murphy (Republican)
County Clerk of District Court
Anne Comeaux Sutton (Democrat)
County Sheriff
Eric Snow (Republican)
Matt Carr (Democrat)
Chris Glenn (independent, turned in signatures but not yet certified)
County Treasurer
Katie Smits (Republican)
House District 16
Mike Yin (Democrat)
House District 22
Andrew Byron (Republican)
House District 23
Shannon Brennan (Republican)
Liz Storer (Democrat)
Senate District 17
Mike Gierau (Democrat)
What do Teton County candidates have to say?
Krista Nethercott
Town Council Four candidates will move on to general
The four candidates who filed to run for Town Council will go directly on the general election ballot, if a write-in candidate doesn’t oust them.
Although there are only two seats available on the Jackson Town Council this year, up to four candidates can be selected to move on in the Aug. 18 primary election. Only four candidates filed to run – three familiar faces and one newcomer.
The Jackson Hole News&Guide has included their biographies in its primary special section. Read more on our website about wh o they are, their experience in the community, approach to governance and policy positions. The Jackson Hole News&Guide has included their entire answers to primary election questionnaires on its Elections page.
These candidates will also be given the opportunity to answer a questionnaire for the Nov. 3 general election.
Gabe Koerber
Lives in: Midtown Jackson Age: 35
Years in Teton County: 18
What’s your current occupation?
I am the head concierge at The Cloudveil. My wife dragged me into hospitality years ago,
and I’ve discovered what a rewarding job it is to get to help others see why Jackson and this area is such an amazing place. The smiles you see on people’s faces when they come back at the end of a day is its own reward.
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as a town councilor?
Communication and anticipation. The roles I’ve had, not just in my current job but others have taught me how essential these two aspects are. My job has also given me the opportunity to speak to so many people in Jackson and get a good perspective on what they think works well and what we can improve.
Why are you running?
I love this place. Jackson has given me and my family a wonderful life, and I want others to have that same opportunity and experience. Recent decisions made by elected officials have eroded the quality of life that many here work too hard to have. I want to be a fresh perspective in a position that struggles with navigating day to day and big picture decisions. Have you run for political office before? I have not.
How would you define the role of town councilor?
A town councilor is a steward and entrusted by the residents in making decisions that keeps Jackson healthy. A person that listens, a person that reasons and does so with a passion for our town.
Jonathan Schechter
Lives in: The wild western edge of Jackson, Indian Trails
Age: 69
Years in Teton County: 39
What’s your current occupation?
Founder/Executive Director of Charture In stitute, a research and policy nonprofit.
Charture helps communities like Jackson understand and address the growth and change threatening not just their cultures, characters and economies, but the ecosystems in which they lie. Our work helps the human and natural worlds co-thrive.
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as a town councilor?
I’ve spent 20+ years studying how and why Jackson Hole is changing, and how we can sustain the qualities that matter most. Being in office has allowed me to apply all I’ve learned – and all I continue to learn – to help our community deal with unprecedented growth and change.
Why are you running?
To help Jackson – our community, economy, and environment – continue thriving. Jackson is an extraordinary community facing unprecedented pressures. These threaten everything making us a special place to live, work and visit. My knowledge, skills and experience make me uniquely qualified to continue serving this town I love.
Have you run for political office before? If so, which? What was the result?
I have successfully run for local elec ted office four times: St. John’s Health Board in 1994 and 1998
Jackson Town Council in 2018 and 2022
How would you define the role of town councilor?
Town councilors guide the town’s present and future. In this work, we have two fundamental responsibilities:
Be fiduciaries of taxpayers’ money and other public assets.
Be stewards of not just today’s Jackson, but the Jackson of 20, 50, 100 years from now.
Every decision we make must honor these responsibilities.
Jess ica Sell Chambers
Declined to answer the questionnaire and participate in the Jackson Hole News&Guide primary election special section.
Alyson Spery
Lives in: East Jackson
Age: 41
Years in Teton County: 10
What’s your current occupation?
Bartender, sound engineer/DJ/cinematographer, documentary filmmaker and bookkeeper.
See TOWN COUNCIL on 15E
Almost 12 years and he’s still learning how to chair a meeting
He’s getting plenty of practice…..
How has your occupation prepared you to serve as a town councilor?
I learned how to listen through social work, how to collaborate through filmmaking and how to roll up my sleeves and help as needed from the service industry. My experience as a bookkeeper, film producer and on the Town Council keeps me aware of the realities of budgeting. Why are you running?
I’m running because I want to keep doing the work. Since being appointed a year and half ago, I’ve learned a lot. I want to ke ep putting that to good use to serve the greater good. Have you run for political office before? No.
How would you define the role of town councilor?
I think of my role as being someone who listens to the community, who puts my working class experience to good use and who shows up every day to get things done – not by tearing people down but by building them up.
State and federal races hotly contested
Across Wyoming, state and federal office races are hotly contested for the Aug. 18 primary election.
Some candidates from Teton County have thrown their hats in the ring, but many are from other communities in the Equality State.
To find out more about who they are, read their biographies and about their experience and approach to governance online. They also weighed in on Teton County issues. The Jackson Hole News&Guide has included their entire answers to primary election questionnaires on its Elections page.
The News&Guide also included answers to important questions that WyoFile asked this election season.
WyoFile is Wyoming’s statewide, independent, nonprofit, public-interest news service. WyoFile created candidate surveys, with input from hundreds of readers, to inform voters ahead of Wyoming’s Aug. 18 primary election. Candidate responses, or lack thereof, are included without edits. See WyoFile’s entire 2026 Election Guide using the QR code located at the beginning of this voter guide.
These candidates will also be given the opportunity to answer a questionnaire for the Nov. 3 general election.
of subscribers vote in local elections
Jackson Hole News&Guide readers are highly engaged voters who plan to vote in 2026.
U.S. Senate
Republican
Harriet Hageman
Jill Edwards
Jimmy Skovgard
John Holtz
Sam Mead
Democrat
Billy Benavidez
James Byrd
U.S. House
Republican
Bo Biteman
Chuck Gray
David Giralt
Jillian Balow
Keith Goodenough
Kevin Christensen
Reid Rasner
Richard Dodson
Steve Friess
Democrat
Elena Del Real
Lisa Kinney
Governor
Republican
Brent Bien
Curt Blake
Eric Barlow
Megan Degenfelder
Democrat
Kenneth Casner
Secretary of State
Republican
CJ Young
Qwenton Eagle Oviatt
Rachel Williams
Robert Short
Democrat
Bryan McCarty
State Auditor
Republican
Kristi Racines
State Treasurer
Republican
Curt Meier
Scott Smith
State Superintendent of Public
Instruction
Republican
Chad Auer
Steve Harshman
Tom Kelly
Democrat
Ana Cordova
Sergio A. Maldonado, Sr.
Thriving communities
Healthcare close to home
Public lands are not for sale
Opportunities for the next generation
Futures decided by Wyoming people — not outsiders
Imagine
Imagine, just for a moment, the most beautiful possible future you can for our community. What do you see? What do you hear? What do you smell? Whatever it is, I believe this is possible. You see, I have been to the future… and we discovered a better way.
This is what I saw:
We remembered how to disagree without becoming enemies, and found that common good grows from common ground.
From there, we saved more than The Block.
We kept our town from becoming mega hotels and vacation rentals, and turned vacant lots into community assets: housing for locals, childcare and community centers, food forests.
Expanses of Kentucky bluegrass became explosions of aster and goldenrod. There was a boom in biodynamic farms and regenerative ranches.
We turned aging homes into duplexes for teachers and firefighters instead of empty third homes for private equity partners. We borrowed tools instead of buying new ones.
We had more time for community instead of long commutes.
We healed our watershed and children played freely in Flat Creek once more. We saw ourselves as a part of the living web of life, not apart from it.
We measured our success by the abundance of birdsong and butterflies. By the number of neighbors we knew by name.
By the decibel of children's laughter echoing in the streets.
By whether parents had enough help.
By backyard gardens.
By rides shared.
We measured our success by our senior citizens’ wellbeing and sense of belonging. By meaningful work that paid a living wage. By our mental health.
I’m not here to tell you all of this was easy. It certainly was not. However, we realized we had a choice. We could continue down the path we were on–toward widening inequality and endless extraction. Or we could choose another way.
We accepted that more of the same thinking and acting was going to lead us to more of the same dysfunction and destruction.
And so, despite all the incentives and conditioning, despite all the odds and obstacles, we chose: courage over cynicism, community over consumerism, imagination over inevitability, and genuinely changed our hometown for the better.
This is the future I'm working to help build. I hope you will join me.
— Ali Dunford
