Auburn Mayor Dismisses Recall Petition Allegations

Backus says recall effort was "politically-motivated" and lacked factual basis.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus has responded to allegations made in a recently failed recall petition against her, calling them "recycled allegations, distortions of past events, and shopworn claims." Backus said the petition, filed by Ronnie Morgan III who finished third in the 2025 mayoral primary, sought to "undermine the decision Auburn voters made in a fair, democratic election." The King County Superior Court dismissed the petition, finding no factual or legal sufficiency.

Why it matters

The failed recall petition highlights the ongoing political tensions in Auburn and the challenges facing elected officials who must navigate allegations and criticisms, even when they are found to lack merit. As Backus noted, Auburn residents deserve "serious leadership" focused on key issues rather than "campaign-season theatrics."

The details

Backus denied using her office for personal gain, granting unwarranted privileges, or interfering in criminal investigations, as alleged in the petition. She explained that certain mayoral benefits, like payout of vacation and sick leave, were in place before she took office and were later updated by the city council. Backus also addressed allegations related to past criminal cases, saying court proceedings are handled through the judicial system, not the mayor's office. Regarding a letter she wrote about a former pastor convicted of child molestation, Backus acknowledged the mistake and said she would not do it again.

  • The recall petition was recently filed by Ronnie Morgan III.
  • King County Superior Court Judge David Whedbee dismissed the petition charges with prejudice on March 13, 2026.

The players

Nancy Backus

The mayor of Auburn, Washington, who has served in the position since 2014.

Ronnie Morgan III

The man who filed the recently failed recall petition against Mayor Backus. He finished third in the 2025 Auburn mayoral primary.

King County Superior Court Judge David Whedbee

The judge who dismissed the recall petition charges against Mayor Backus with prejudice.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This recall petition was reviewed through the legal process in King County Superior Court, as it should be. I am thankful that when the facts were evaluated, this effort was recognized for what it was: a political grievance masquerading as ethical concerns. Finding no factual or legal sufficiency, the Court dismissed the petition charges with prejudice.”

— Nancy Backus, Mayor of Auburn

“Let me be clear. I have never used my office for personal gain, never granted unwarranted privileges, and never interfered in any criminal investigation. Allegations suggesting otherwise are false.”

— Nancy Backus, Mayor of Auburn

“The draft letter that is public record is just that – a draft. I did not use my mayoral position to request the judge to consider treatment for Mr. Headley. Even though his attorney asked for my statement, it was never submitted to the court. To continue weaponizing that situation for political purposes does nothing to support victims or strengthen our community.”

— Nancy Backus, Mayor of Auburn

What’s next

The judge's dismissal of the recall petition charges with prejudice means the case cannot be refiled.

The takeaway

This failed recall effort underscores the need for elected officials to remain focused on the key issues facing their communities, rather than getting mired in politically-motivated allegations. Mayor Backus has vowed to continue serving Auburn with integrity, transparency, and accountability.