Runyon leads in council primary race

Roy Runyon held a commanding lead in the initial election returns Tuesday night for the Bremerton City Council District 4 seat being vacated by Councilwoman Wendy Priest.

With 310 votes counted, Runyon had 113 votes or 36 percent of the vote, while Bremerton business owner Carlos Jara was a distant second with 85 votes or 27 percent of the vote. Trent England was third with 72 votes, for 23 percent and Virginia Starr received 35 votes for 11 percent.

After seeing the initial results, Runyon said he felt good going into Tuesday's night election.

"I received a pretty positive response from my doorbelling and I've lived in the district for more than two years, so I know the issues," he said.

The hard work before the primary election paid off, but more work remains before the Nov. 6 general election, he said.

"I really enjoy campaigning and getting to know people," he said.

However, when asked about his keys to success in the general election, Runyon said, "I'm keeping that close to the vest."

As far as voter turnout, Runyon said he was pleased with the overall numbers because of the early primary date and the fact that many voters were still out of town.

"I'd say it's pretty good," he said. "The real work begins in January when I take office."

Jara could not be reached for comment by press time Tuesday night. A more indepth story will be in the Aug. 25 edition of the Patriot.

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