Nordyke Leads Hoy in Salem Mayor Race as Hoy Concedes; Ward 8 Council Seat Too Close to Call

After months of door‑to‑door canvassing, town halls and endorsements, Salem voters went to the polls on Tuesday, May 19. The first ballots released around 8 p.m. showed Nordyke ahead of Hoy. Supporters of Progressive Salem gathered at the Willamette Heritage Center’s Dye House, while backers of Marion + Polk First watched results at the Salem Convention Center. Gov. Tina Kotek attended the progressive event and saw early returns indicating she would win the Democratic primary. Early returns indicated city council president Linda Nishioka was ahead of her challenger, while Betsy Vega appeared poised to win the Ward 6 seat against Mai Vang. In Ward 3, incumbent Deanna Gwyn trailed challenger Dave Inbody by a narrow margin. These results pointed to mixed outcomes across the city’s districts.

- Councilor Vanessa Nordyke held a lead over incumbent Mayor Julie Hoy in the initial tabulation. - Mayor Julie Hoy conceded the mayoral race on Wednesday afternoon. - As of Wednesday afternoon, the Ward 8 council race between incumbent Micki Varney and challenger Chris Cummings was still too close to call, with fewer than 200 votes separating the candidates.

Nordyke’s advantage suggests a shift in voter preference toward the progressive slate, though the final margin awaits the full count. Hoy’s concession clears the way for a transition of mayoral authority, pending certification. The unresolved Ward 8 contest could affect the council’s balance of power, influencing upcoming votes on budget and housing policy. Officials will continue to tabulate absentee and provisional ballots, with a final canvass expected by Friday. Voters and candidates should watch for the updated Ward 8 tally and any potential recount requests.