Shasta County election officials report that roughly 32,000 of the projected 75,000 ballots cast in the Nov. 3, 2026 election have been counted, giving a first look at likely outcomes for local races and measures.
Supervisor race shows early lead
Incumbent Chris Kelstrom faces a strong challenge from former state legislator Mike Gallagher for the District 5 Supervisor seat. Gallagher currently holds about 57% of the counted votes. While Kelstrom could still close the gap with fewer than 900 votes, the remaining thousands of mail‑in and drop‑box ballots mean the race remains technically open.
Redding City Council candidates emerge as front‑runners
Three seats on the Redding City Council are up for election. Civil engineer and planning commissioner Russ Wenham leads with roughly 22% of the counted votes, and current council member Tenessa Audette follows at about 19.5%. Business owner Christina Prosperi and candidate Mark Mezzano round out the top four, each holding double‑digit percentages. Audette has announced on Facebook that she believes she has won, though many ballots are still pending.
Shasta County Office of Education Board likely to retain incumbents
Four seats on the County Office of Education Board are contested. Redding School District Board member Bruce Ross, incumbents Arthur Gorman and Teresa Roberts, and election activist Michele Tyson each show strong early numbers. Nancy Walker trails closely behind Tyson for the final seat.
Ballot measures show mixed results
Measure E, which would prohibit the county from using eminent domain to transfer property between private owners, is passing with nearly 66% support. Measure F, altering how the county board fills vacancies, also appears to be passing with about 67.5% in favor. Measure C, a funding proposal for Shasta College construction projects, is currently failing with 53.5% voting against it, though the large number of uncounted ballots could still affect the final outcome.
Counting timeline and voter turnout expectations
Shasta County’s 115,587 registered voters historically turn out at roughly 65% in midterm elections, suggesting about 75,000 ballots were cast this year. California law gives election officials 30 days to finish counting and certify results, setting a certification deadline of Dec. 3.
What’s next?
Election staff continue to process ballots from drop boxes and other mail‑in sources. As the count progresses, the leads identified today may solidify or shift, especially in close races like the Supervisor contest. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official county updates as the final results approach.
Original reporting: Shasta Scout (Redding) — read the source article.
