Election: Barron, McCarthy, Van Veen, Martin win Hermiston council seats
Published 10:00 pm Tuesday, May 19, 2026
HERMISTON — Hermiston voters reelected Roy Barron and David McCarthy to the Hermiston City Council on Tuesday, May 19, while Krista Van Veen defeated incumbent Jackie Linton and Barbara Martin defeated Leeann Wornell, according to unofficial results from the Oregon Secretary of State’s office.
In Ward 1, Van Veen received 61.8% with 880 votes, while incumbent Jackie Linton received 37.7% with 538 votes.
“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who supported this campaign,” Van Veen said. “This has always been about neighbors showing up for each other — and about supporting small businesses, shopping local, and being responsible with how we manage our resources. I’m honored by the trust the voters have placed in me, and I’m ready to get to work.”
In Ward II, Barron received 70.4% with 949 votes, while challenger Caleb Jacobs received 29.01% with 391 votes.
“I’m grateful for the trust and support the community has placed in me,” Barron said. “Hermiston is at an important point in its growth, and I’m ready to continue providing steady leadership focused on public safety, infrastructure, economic opportunity, livability and fiscal responsibility. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and stay engaged in our community.”
In Ward III, Martin won with 64.79% with 758 votes, while Wornell received 34.19% with 400 votes.
Martin did not respond to requests for comment.
“Thank you to everyone who voted in this election,” Wornell said. “Thank you for the trust, for the engagement, for the participation. While I am disappointed by the loss, I am profoundly grateful to have taken part in the democratic process in my community. I am proud to have been a part of it. I believe Barbara Martin will be an excellent addition to our city council Ward III seat. I have had the pleasure of knowing her both through this election and as a member of our community and she has always conducted herself as an honest person who cares for the wellbeing of others. I hope to see you supporting her at the next city council meeting.”
In Ward IV, McCarthy retained his seat with 72.73% with 891 votes, while Manuel Flores III received 26.78% with 328 votes.
“I really appreciate the trust people place in me tonight,” McCarthy said. “I’ve always tried to treat this job seriously — showing up prepared, paying attention, asking questions and doing the work even when nobody sees it. Hermiston’s growing fast and there’s still a lot to tackle, but I’m excited to keep working on it. And honestly, thanks to everyone who participated, even when we disagreed. People caring enough to be involved is still a good thing.”