The local race that’s received the most attention on social media still has a couple more months before it’s finished.

The job of Kingfisher County sheriff will be in the hands of either Jonathan Riedlinger or Aaron Pitts beginning next year.

Those were the top two vote-getters in last Tuesday’s Republican primary.

They’ll be in the primary runoff election which is set for Aug. 27.

Riedlinger, currently an undersheriff at the department, narrowly missed on winning the election outright.

He received 1,321 votes to lead all four candidates, which also included Forrest Smith and Jeremiah Loper.

Riedlinger’s total was 49.49% of the 2,669 total votes cast.

To win, a candidate needed 50 percent plus one of the total votes. Riedlinger was just 13 shy of that number.

“Thank you to all of the Kingfisher County voters who took the time for mailing in their ballots, showing up for early voting and also on election day,” Riedlinger said. “Voting is such a vital and important roll that we get to exercise.”

Riedlinger won eight of the 12 precincts. He also led among voters who cast ballots early and through absentee mail.

“This has honestly been one of the best job interviews I have been in. I will be continuing to work hard at my job and campaigning in my off time,” Riedlinger said. “However, Aug. 27 is another important voting day and with your continued support, I look forward to being your next Kingfisher County sheriff.”

Pitts, the Hennessey police chief, garnered 770 votes, which gave him 28.85%.

That put him well ahead of the other two challengers.

Former Okarche Police Chief Forrest Smith received 490 votes, good for 18.36% while Hennessey reserve officer Jeremiah Loper’s 88 votes accounted for 3.30%.

Pitts won the four precincts not claimed by Riedlinger - both in Hennessey as well as two in Dover.

He claimed 392 votes at the two Hennessey precincts, which was 307 more than Riedlinger.

Voters at Dover Town Hall and Central Baptist Church gave him an eightvote advantage combined in those precincts.

“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported me and took the time to vote,” Pitts told the KT&FP. “Your participation is vital and deeply appreciated. Your voices matter and you make a difference.”

Pitts said he’s fully aware he’s got a big difference to make up at the runoff if he wants to claim the job as sheriff.

“To those who didn’t vote, I encourage you to take some time to research both myself and Jonathan. By understanding our positions, values and plans, you can make an informed and educated decision,” he said.

“Your vote is important and your participation shapes our future. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to me and I’d be happy to speak with you.”

The winner in August will be sworn in and take office in January 2025 as there were no Democrats who filed for the position.

The victor will replace longtime Sheriff Dennis Banther, who is retiring at the end of this year and did not seek re-election.