Two victors — Republicans Jay Kirkland and Lisa Barker — have emerged from this year’s crowded race to secure their spots on the Swain County Board of Commissioners. The five-candidate race also included Democratic contenders Erika Smith and Cris Reed and independent Cynthia Womble.
Republican Robby Brown will become Swain County Commission chair after besting Democrat Jeramy Shuler and independent Fred Crawford.
Brown’s win isn’t surprising in a county that leans heavily Republican, though he’s branded himself as less conservative and was previously unaffiliated with either party.