Forbes defeats McCoy for Polk Supervisor nomination
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John Forbes, a former state representative (left), and incumbent Matt McCoy. Photos: Courtesy of Forbes for Polk County Supervisor; Polk County
John Forbes defeated incumbent Polk County Supervisor Matt McCoy in Tuesday's Democratic primary for District 1, winning 60% of the vote.
Why it matters: Forbes' win marks a shakeup on the Democratic side as the party tries to defend its board majority in November.
State of play: The board's two Republicans, Jill Altringer and Mark Holm, took office in January and are not up for reelection this year.
Context: McCoy's latest term has been marked by county-government controversies, including ongoing litigation tied to sexual harassment allegations against him, which he has denied.
- Polk County has spent more than $260,000 responding to lawsuits from deputy administrator Sarah Boese and recently agreed to a $2.5 million settlement with former HR director Jim Nahas after fallout from Boese's complaint.
Other local races
Polk County Supervisor, District 4: Heather Jones-Brown won the Democratic primary, beating DSM Councilperson Joe Gatto, to succeed retiring Supervisor Tom Hockensmith, taking just over 50% of the vote.
- Gatto's council seat was not up for election this year and he is expected to remain in that office.
Polk County Supervisor, District 5: State Sen. Izaah Knox was unchallenged in the Democratic primary to succeed retiring Supervisor Angela Connolly.
Polk County recorder: Deputy recorder Lisa Chiodo bested Luisita McBurney, a longtime state government employee, for the Democratic nomination, taking 54% of the vote.
What's next: No Republicans were on the primary ballot for these county offices, but the GOP can still nominate candidates for November by filling ballot vacancies through party conventions.