Longtime Clallam County Attorney Enters District Court Judge Race

Alex Schodowski announces candidacy, endorsed by current judge

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:31pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of an empty wooden bench in a sunlit courthouse hallway, conveying a sense of contemplation and anticipation surrounding the upcoming judicial election.The race for Clallam County's District Court judge seat will determine the future leadership and direction of the local judicial system.Sequim Today

Alex Schodowski, a longtime Clallam County attorney and judge pro tem, has announced her candidacy for the Clallam County District Court judge position. Schodowski has over 15 years of legal experience as a prosecutor, defense attorney, and judicial officer, and has received an endorsement from the current District Court Judge David Neupert.

Why it matters

The race for the Clallam County District Court judge seat is an important local election that will determine the leadership and direction of the county's judicial system. Schodowski's entry as the first candidate brings her extensive experience to the forefront, and Neupert's endorsement signals support from the current office holder.

The details

Schodowski has served for nearly a decade as a judge pro tem in both District and Superior Court, presiding over thousands of cases ranging from DUI to more complex criminal matters. She began her career as a Clallam County deputy prosecuting attorney and now works in private practice, handling criminal defense, DUI, and personal injury cases. Schodowski says her experience on both sides of the courtroom gives her a balanced perspective as she seeks the position.

  • Schodowski announced her candidacy in April 2026.
  • Local office filing begins in early May 2026.

The players

Alex Schodowski

A longtime Clallam County attorney and judge pro tem who has announced her candidacy for the Clallam County District Court judge position.

David Neupert

The current Clallam County District Court judge who has endorsed Schodowski's candidacy, though he has not yet announced whether he will seek reelection.

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What they’re saying

“I bring more than 15 years of legal experience as a prosecutor, defense attorney, and judicial officer.”

— Alex Schodowski, Candidate for Clallam County District Court Judge

What’s next

The filing period for local office in Clallam County begins in early May 2026, and voters will have the opportunity to choose the next District Court judge in the upcoming election.

The takeaway

Schodowski's entry into the race for Clallam County District Court judge brings a candidate with extensive legal experience on both sides of the courtroom. Her endorsement by the current judge signals support for her balanced perspective and qualifications to lead the county's judicial system.