The County Commissioner races for the November 2024 election are beginning to take shape, with some competitive primaries already visible, at least in District 2. Now one more variable in the District 3 race has been put to rest. 

District 3 County Commissioner Mike Samson has officially announced that he will seek re-election for the 2024 election. Samson, a Republican, has served for 16 years as the District 3 Commissioner and will be seeking his fifth term in his current seat. 

“I filed my paperwork (Jan. 18) to declare my candidacy for District 3 County Commissioner,” said Samson.

District 3 makes up a large portion of the western county, running from the Utah border through Rifle. Historically, this district has been heavily associated with the oil and gas industry; for which Samson is a supporter. Oil and gas revenue makes up a large portion of the county budget and has been used, amongst other things, to help lower the mill levy — something that was recently done to help residents of Garfield County afford the increase in property taxes.

Samson could face off against the Democratic Candidate Steven Arauza in the November election. 

When asked about District 2 County Commissioner John Martin choosing not to run for re-election, Samson said “John has been a great friend, mentor, and a trustworthy, loyal companion and we’re all sad to see him go.”

The Primary Election is slated for June 25, preceding the General Election on Nov. 5.