2026 Election Results Cover OC Assessor, Clerk-Recorder, Treasurer-Tax Collector Races
In the early returns of Orange County’s elections for assessor, clerk-recorder, and treasurer-tax collector, incumbents have emerged with significant advantages over their challengers. The preliminary results, posted shortly after the polls closed, indicate a strong lead for incumbents in these key financial management positions.
In the race for Assessor, Claude Parrish is garnering noteworthy support against La Palma Councilmember Janet Keo Conklin. At 78 years old, Parrish, who has held the office since 2014, is seeking a fourth term. His platform revolves around aiding residents with property tax issues and advocating for an extension of the assessment appeal filing deadline from September 15 to November 30. Prior to his current role, Parrish served as chairman of California’s Board of Equalization, bringing significant experience to the position.
On the other hand, Conklin, a 55-year-old real estate professional with over 25 years of experience, has voiced her commitment to ensuring homeowners and renters are informed of their rights. She emphasizes the importance of guiding residents through Proposition 13 and Proposition 19 regulations, which are critical for preserving low tax bases and securing home stability.
In the contest for Clerk-Recorder, incumbent Hugh Nguyen holds a substantial lead over his challenger, data specialist Maria Holly Barraza. Nguyen, 58, has been in office since 2013 and has introduced innovative services such as the Clerk-Recorder on Wheels mobile van, which facilitates the issuance of essential documents like passports and marriage licenses at community events. Barraza, 43, brings experience from several public agencies, including the OC Registrar of Voters. She aims to enhance community access to services through the development of secure, user-friendly digital tools and extended service hours.
The treasurer-tax collector position also sees a commanding lead for incumbent Shari Freidenrich against Dana Schultz, the county’s chief investment officer. Freidenrich, 66, has held her current position since 2010, with a previous tenure as treasurer of Huntington Beach for 15 years. Despite facing challenges, including the removal of her authority over the county’s billion investment pool by the Board of Supervisors, Freidenrich is proposing a “Save Our Seniors” program, aimed at providing property tax reminders for seniors through designated family members or friends. Schultz, 45, who has collaborated with Freidenrich as assistant treasurer-tax collector, proposes to maintain stable financial operations through improved communication and accessible online tools, including e-billing options.
These emerging trends in the election results reflect the incumbents’ established track records and their respective plans for enhancing community engagement and service efficiency in Orange County.
