Gov. Kotek appoints Cris Patnode as Gilliam Co. Judge

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek appointed Cris Patnode as Gilliam County Judge on June 4 – two weeks after Patnode captured nearly 62% of the vote for county judge in the primary election.

Patnode was sworn into office on June 11, 2024 and will serve as the county's executive officer.

By carrying more than 51% of the vote in the primary election, Patnode secured victory in the race for county judge – which had been vacant since the recall of Elizabeth Farrar Campbell on April 30.

In a press release, Governor Kotek's office said that the appointment reflects the majority of voters in Gilliam County.

While Judge Patnode's term will officially begin in January, significant work must be done in the weeks and months ahead.

The Gilliam County Court has been at a standstill for nearly six weeks – after Judge Elizabeth Farrar Campbell and Commissioner Pat Shannon were recalled from office.

The county court has paid its bills and staff, but has not conducted other business.

The county needs to pass its 2024-2025 budget before the new fiscal year begins on July 1, 2024.

The Gilliam County Court oversees more than 60 staff and a budget of more than $80 million.

Patnode has said that her first priority is to bring healing to the county. But the court will need to work quickly to appoint the County Commissioner #2 position, which has been vacant since Patnode's brother, Pat Shannon, was recalled from office. Grant Wilkins of Arlington took nearly 68% of the vote and is likely to be appointed by the county court.

Judge Patnode brings significant experience as an elected official in Gilliam County – where she has served as Justice of the Peace for more than 24 years.