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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Spin Control

Candidate drops bid for county commission

David Elton, a civic gadfly and former radio show host, announced Monday that he is dropping his bid for Spokane County Commission.

Elton had filed to run as a Republican for the seat held by Democrat Bonnie Mager. Elton faces harassment charges related to e-mails he sent that allegedly threatened City Council President Joe Shogan and Cowles Co. Chairwoman Betsy Cowles. The Cowles Co. owns The Spokesman-Review.

Elton recently was ordered by a Spokane County Superior Court judge to undergo mental evaluations to decide if he's competent to stand trial.

"Mr. Elton believes that he cannot get fair and accurate media coverage from the local journalists," said a news release from Elton that announced his departure from the race.

Spokane County Elections Manager Mike McLaughlin said it's too late for Elton to pull his name from the August primary ballot. Mager and Republicans Jeff Holy, Al French and Steve Salvatori remain in the race for County Commission.



Jonathan Brunt
Jonathan Brunt joined The Spokesman-Review in 2004. He is the government editor. He previously was a reporter who covered Spokane City Hall, Spokane County government and public safety.

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