Longtime Republican goes independent in race for WA House seat

Quilcene resident Marcia Kelbon announced her candidacy for the Washington state House to represent the 24th Legislative District in this year’s election.

The seat, left open by Steve Tharinger, has drawn interest from five candidates so far.

-snip-

Kelbon holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemical engineering, as well as a law degree from the University of Washington. She has previous experience working as a civilian engineer for the U.S. Navy, a patent attorney, a senior executive and general counsel for a biopharmaceutical company and has served as a Quilcene fire commissioner since 2022.

A longtime Republican and former vice chair of the Jefferson County Republicans, Kelbon intends to run as an independent.

https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2026/04/17/longtime-republican-goes-independent-in-race-for-house-seat/

Republican is a toxic brand in most parts of this state.