McDonald Endorses Paxton for Forsyth County Sheriff

Former Forsyth County sheriff's candidate Lauren McDonald endorsed incumbent Ted Paxton for sheriff Friday morning.

“I am endorsing Sheriff Paxton because, as I said during the debates, he has done an excellent job as sheriff during the past 12 years,” McDonald stated in a press release.

“The primary issue I had with Sheriff Paxton was the sheriff’s office budget, plus, I just felt it was time for a change and fresh ideas. I know that he has the county’s best interest at heart. I also ran for sheriff because I wanted to see more emphasis placed in the School Resource Officer program, not only for the safety of our schools but to educate our young people on the challenges they will face as they grow into adulthood and become leaders in our community.”

McDonald, a long time resident of Forsyth County and current coroner, lost his bid for sheriff in Tuesday's primary. .

, a runoff election will be held on Aug. 21 between he and Piper.

"Sheriff Paxton and I both ran a clean campaign and concentrated only on the issues,” McDonald added. “That’s the way political campaigns should be run."

“I encourage all of my friends and supporters to turn out on Tuesday, Aug. 21, and cast their vote for Sheriff Ted Paxton,” McDonald said. “That’s what I’m going to do."

Paxton, who is seeking his fourth term as Forsyth County Sheriff said, “I’m honored and humbled that Lauren has chosen to endorse me for my fourth term as sheriff. Obviously, he and I share many of the same concerns for our county, especially the safety of our children and our neighborhoods. We both chose to run an issues-oriented campaign and I wish him the best. I’m happy to know that I can rely on Lauren in the weeks and months ahead as a trusted advisor.”

During Paxton's tenure, the agency has won numerous state and national awards for its various safety programs, including an award-winning Neighborhood Watch program.

Editor's Note: Cumming Patch is not affiliated with nor endorses any political party, organization or candidate running for public office.

If you have a campaign announcement or press release – send that information to liz.kennedy@patch.com

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