Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Runyan, Manning Battle In Runoff

Though the May 19, Preferential Party Primary has ended, the political season continues in Clark County.

Two men are vying for the position of Clark County Judge. Incumbent Grady Runyan is being challenged by Floyd "Buddy" Manning for the job.

The two finished first and second in a three-man race during the primaries, and are in a runoff, which will be held June 9. The runoff election will decide the county judge's race unless someone runs as an independent for the General Election in November.

Both candidates have hit the campaign trail and been visiting the voters seeking their aid for the runoff.

Runyan said there are 1,463 votes to be claimed at this time. These are the votes received by the third candidate, Ron Daniell. "I want my part of them," he said. "I've been urging people to get out and vote. I'm afraid of a low turnout."

Runyan has been talking to people, while also being busy handling the duties he was originally elected for. This includes working on several grant applications and a number of road projects throughout the county.

"I'm deeply involved in the job," he said. "I hope people will understand this and support me."

Runyan said he's visiting people after working hours and won't be able to see everyone before the election arrives.

Manning has also been working the voters, checking to fill in the gaps.

"We see our weak places," he said, "and are working to visit the people in those areas. I can't see everyone again, but will work Daniell's area to try and pick up his votes if I can. I know he's hurting now."

Manning said it's time for a change in leadership, with fresh new ideas needed in the judge's office. "I can provide them," he said.

If elected, he plans on working to secure more grants along with bringing new industry to Clark County. He will also work to get a technical college in the industrial park to provide better training for the area's work force. "This has been a dream of mine for a long time," he said.

Other plans include working closer with cities in the county, having town and community meetings, being available to the public and building better roads in the county.