The sheriff election in Rowan County has intensified following the release of mid-year finance reports, revealing significant fundraising efforts by candidates. As of July 31, 2023, the four Republican contenders—Carl Dangerfield, Tim Harrington, Jody Burleyson, and incumbent Travis Allen—are actively vying for the position, with no Democratic candidate in the race.
Leading the fundraising efforts is Burleyson, who has raised $82,481.21, a remarkable increase from his mid-year total of $42,967.15. The majority of his funds, approximately $74,635.48, have come from individual donations. Notable contributors include County Commissioner Mike Caskey, who donated $1,600.73, and Veterinarian Susan Simmerson, contributing $6,604.48. Despite significant expenditures of $48,265.27, Burleyson retains $34,215.74 in cash on hand.
Allen follows closely behind with a total of $39,296.80, a substantial increase from his previous mid-year report of $6,779.43. His campaign has seen contributions from various local business owners, including Daniel Black of Tamarac Campground, who contributed $1,080. After spending $25,612.34, Allen has $14,853.87 remaining for the campaign.
Harrington has also shown impressive growth in fundraising, reporting a total of $13,455.03, up from $5,755 in his mid-year report. His contributions include $1,500 from his own funds. Significant donations to Harrington include Angela Bolick, who contributed $3,100.
In contrast, Dangerfield has raised $5,567.67, an increase from $3,554.67 previously reported. His campaign has not listed any contributions exceeding $1,000, and he has spent $5,313.68, leaving a total of $500.77.
Overall, the Rowan County sheriff race has seen a total of approximately $101,503 raised at mid-year. While this amount is substantial, it falls short of the $236,357 raised during the previous election cycle in 2022, which had seven candidates competing for the position after the retirement of longtime Sheriff Kevin Auten. The highest fundraiser from that election was Tommie Cato, who raised $73,921.
As the race progresses, candidates will need to continue their fundraising efforts, especially given the competitive landscape and the increasing financial demands of campaigning. The dynamics of the race suggest a vigorous contest ahead as the election date approaches.
