Palm Beach County Sheriff Race Heats Up

The upcoming sheriff's races in various counties have drawn significant attention, with incumbents facing challenges from former allies and new contenders. In Palm Beach County, Democratic incumbent Sheriff Ric Bradshaw seeks a sixth term against former chief deputy Michael Gauger, a Republican, who accuses Bradshaw of poor health and mismanagement while Bradshaw defends his record and criticizes Gauger's qualifications. Johnson County's race features Doug Bedford, who won the GOP primary against controversial incumbent Calvin Hayden, now facing Democrat Byron Roberson, marking a potentially historic shift in sheriff elections. In Hamilton County, Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey competes against former sheriff Jim Neil, who argues that safety has declined under her leadership. Lastly, in Merrimack County, Frank Cassidy challenges Sheriff David Croft, alleging a hostile work environment during his tenure under Croft, while Croft maintains that his department is functioning well. These races highlight varying local issues, including law enforcement integrity, community safety, and administrative efficiency.