WINNEMUCCA — Candidates for public office lined the Humboldt County Clerk's front desk on Monday -- the first day to file for office.  Arriving first were current office holders seeking reelection:  County Recorder Mary Ann Hammond, County Assessor Jeff Johnson, County Treasurer Gina Rackley, County Clerk Tami Rae Spero, and County Commissioner Dan Cassinelli (shown left).

There were also some new faces joining the political arena. Jim French, the former NDOW wildlife biologist, filed for Humboldt County Commission Seat E.  That seat is currently held by Commissioner Chuck Giordano who's prevented by term-limits from seeking reelection.  French retired last June and decided to seek office now that he has the time to serve.  He said he's considered running in the past but now was really the right time.  He noted the county has some promising prospects on the horizon, such as the potential for developing alternative energy sources, as well as  some challenges, including some changes to the federal  land designations. 

If there's one thing voters hate it's lack of choices on the ballot.  The 2010 race for Humboldt County DA will offer plenty of options.  In addition to Kevin Pasquale, of Fallon, who announced last week his intention to run, local attorney Mike Macdonald (shown left)  will also be seeking that office.  Macdonald worked in the DA's office from 1998 - 2003 as a deputy but left to pursue private practice. He said his background in both criminal and civil law is what's needed to manage the caseload at the DA's Office.  He noted the many challenges facing local government, including the loss of confidence by voters towards their elected leaders, and said he would work to restore the public trust.  As a life-long resident of Winnemucca, Macdonald said he  understands the many issues facing the community and has an established positive working relationship with law enforcement and county officials.  

Seeking reelection is incumbent DA Russell Smith (shown right with wife Allison).  Smith is finishing his first term as district attorney. Smith thanked the voters for their past support and said he looked forward to continue working for them.  Smith moved to Winnemucca at the end of 2004 to work at the DA's Office and was elected to the top job in 2006.  He had previously worked at the Churchill County DA's Office for five years.  Smith spoke to the challenges of the office -- including the uncertainty of the regional and national economic situation, which could impact crime levels.  Smith said while overall crime decreased since he's been district attorney, domestic battery remains too high.  He explained crimes like domestic battery increase during times of uncertainty when families are under greater stress.

Andy Rorex (shown left) is challenging the incumbent for the office of Humboldt County Sheriff.  Rorex is a sergeant with the SO, has served with that agency for 15 years, is the SRT leader and has worked everything  -- from detention to street patrol.  He said he looks forward to serving the community with integrity.  

Sheriff Ed Kilgore, shown left with his wife Season and their daughter, said he would be honored to serve the voters for another four years.  Kilgore is finishing his first term as sheriff and was formerly with the Winnemucca Police Department for 12 years.  Kilgore said the last three years were a time of change in which new programs were implemented to better serve the public.