Outside of a stunning turnaround of events, the Nov. 5 Auburn Mayoral election is headed for a showdown between Auburn City Council member Nancy Backus and her fellow Council member John Partridge.

In the combined King and Pierce counties results of Tuesday’s primary, Backus as of Thursday afternoon had garnered 48.29 percent of the vote and Councilman Partridge 37.1 percent. Iraq War veteran Scot Pondelick had 14.6 percent.

Partridge said he was “very encouraged” with the primary returns.

“Taking on an entrenched political establishment isn’t easy. Looking at the combined totals, over 51 percent of the Auburn voters marked their ballots for a change at City Hall. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported this campaign. Seeing these results and believing we can get it done, I will continue to work hard and share my vision. I look forward to having the opportunity to serve our community as the next mayor,” Partridge said.

Backus talked about her plans for the fall campaign.

“Winning the primary doesn’t mean we get to take it easy for the next few months,” Backus said. “It means we stay focused and positive and work even harder. We have a few fundraisers in the planning stages, more coffee hours and doorbelling. I have a wonderful team of volunteers – no paid advisors – that truly care about Auburn.  We have been endorsed by a very diverse group of businesses, organizations and individuals.  I believe that speaks volumes about the fact that I can work well with everyone and not focus on special interests.”