What is a retention vote?

Instead of choosing between candidates, you vote YES or NO on whether each judge stays on the court for another term. A judge who doesn't get enough YES votes (a simple majority in most states) is removed, and the seat is filled by appointment.

The general election was Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Counts are unofficial until each state certifies its results over the following weeks; your state or county election office has the official results.

Bear Lake County Magistrate Judge — retain R. Todd Garbett?

Last updated Sat, Nov 7, 4:33 PM ET

Retention election · November 3, 2026

What this office does

A judge. Judges decide criminal and civil cases. Depending on the state and court, they are chosen in contested elections or in retention votes, where you vote YES or NO on keeping the judge for another term.

Judges on the ballot

A separate Yes/No vote on each judge: YES keeps them on the court for another term.

R. Todd Garbett

Appointed by —

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Quick answers

What is a retention vote?: Instead of choosing between candidates, you vote YES or NO on whether each judge stays on the court for another term. A judge who doesn't get enough YES votes (a simple majority in most states) is removed, and the seat is filled by appointment.
Which judges are up for retention?: R. Todd Garbett.
When is the vote?: The general election was Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Counts are unofficial until each state certifies its results over the following weeks; your state or county election office has the official results.

Not sure how to decide? Read our nonpartisan guide to the Bear Lake County ballot.

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