Commissioner Emily Clouse Faces Recall Petition Amid Workplace Investigation Fallout

In Thurston County, Commissioner Emily Clouse is facing a recall petition filed by Arthur West, an advocate for open government, which alleges malfeasance and misfeasance following a workplace investigation into her conduct. This investigation raised concerns about her relationship with an executive aide. In response, the county commission unanimously voted to censure Clouse, indicating a significant loss of confidence in her leadership. Compounding her legal troubles, the board voted 3-2 to deny her legal representation from the county’s Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, leaving her to defend herself. West argues that the standards for conduct should apply equally to elected officials and regular county employees.

If the petition progresses, voters will ultimately decide Clouse's fate, either at the end of her term or sooner if the recall is successful. The next steps involve the county’s Prosecuting Attorney’s Office preparing a ballot synopsis, which will be reviewed by a Superior Court judge for validity. While the investigation cleared Clouse of sexual harassment claims, it suggested she likely acted against the county's best interests.