Incumbent Washington County Judge Patrick Deakins faced challengers Tim Shepard, and Mark Scalise in March 3 balloting for the GOP nomination. After votes were counted, no candidate gained the 50% of votes required to be elected. Therefore, the top two finishers–Shepard and Deakins–will face each other in a March 31 runoff. Shepard received 49% of the votes, and Deakins received 31%.

Residents of Washington County cast their ballots during the March 3 general election to determine the party nominee who will run for Washington County Judge. The GOP candidates were Republican Tim Shepard, Republican Mark Scalise, and incumbent Republican County Judge Patrick Deakins.

The winner of the March 31 primary runoff will face Democrat Dana Deree in the Nov. 3 general election.

Tim Shepard describes himself as a leader grounded in the values of hard work and doing the right thing for others. His faith guides how he leads, emphasizing integrity, accountability, and respect for every person he serves.

Mark Scalise has spent more than 30 years as an attorney and business leader. Through that experience, he says he has seen firsthand the impact that strong leadership can have on people’s lives. Scalise describes himself as a passionate leader ready to serve the community and make a positive impact for the greater good.

Deakins was elected Washington County judge in 2022. He is a husband and father of two who lives in Springdale. During his term as county judge, he says he has eliminated $2 million in waste from the county budget and improved public safety by increasing support for first responders. Deakins is also a pro-life advocate and formerly served as vice-chair of the County Jail & Law Enforcement Committee.