The Rowan County sheriff election is shaping up to be highly competitive, with candidates raising significant funds as they approach the final months of campaigning. As of the mid-year finance reports released on July 31, 2023, the total amount raised by the four Republican candidates has reached approximately $101,503.
Leading Fundraisers and Their Contributions
Jody Burleyson, a former Rowan County Patrol Lieutenant, is currently leading the fundraising efforts with a total of $82,481.21. His contributions primarily stem from individual donations, amounting to $74,635.48, with over $10,000 of that coming from his personal investments in the campaign. Significant donations include contributions from County Commissioner Mike Caskey, who donated $1,600.73, and veterinarian Susan Simmerson, who contributed $6,604.48. Burleyson has spent $48,265.27 of his funds, leaving him with $34,215.74 cash on hand.
Following Burleyson, incumbent sheriff Travis Allen has raised $39,296.80, marking a substantial increase from his mid-year report where he reported only $6,779.43. Allen himself contributed $2,000 to his campaign. His notable contributors include Daniel Black of Tamarac Campground, who donated $1,080, and Phillip Bradshaw from Bradshaw’s Bail Bonding, who contributed $1,000. According to the latest figures, Allen has spent $25,612.34, retaining $14,853.87 for future expenses.
Tim Harrington, a former police captain in Stallings, has also seen a significant uptick in his fundraising efforts, reporting $13,455.03, compared to $5,755 in his mid-year report. Harrington’s contributions include $1,500 from his own funds, with support from notable donors such as Angela Bolick, who contributed $3,100. He has spent $10,797.52, leaving him with $2,657.51 cash on hand.
Carl Dangerfield, a former detective and private investigator, reported the lowest fundraising total at $5,567.67, up from $3,554.67 in his mid-year report. Dangerfield has personally contributed $2,813 to his campaign and has spent $5,313.68, leaving him with $500.77 available for future campaigning.
Comparative Context and Historical Fundraising
The fundraising landscape for this election contrasts notably with the previous cycle in 2022, where candidates collectively raised $236,357 among seven candidates for an open seat following the retirement of longtime Sheriff Kevin Auten. In that election, Tommie Cato emerged as the top fundraiser with $73,921, bolstered by loans that contributed to his high-spending campaign. In comparison, Burleyson has significantly surpassed Cato’s early fundraising totals, with only $1,000 of his current amount derived from loans.
As the election draws closer, the candidates are actively working to engage voters and bolster their financial support. The next few months will be critical as they continue to navigate the fundraising landscape and prepare for the upcoming election.
