Race for Madison Co. Sheriff one of the most expensive in history
JACKSON, Tenn. — The race for Madison County sheriff is one of the most expensive sheriff’s races in county history, according to election officials. Madison County sheriff contenders John Mehr and Rick Staples are bringing in big bucks in donations for their campaigns, and have raised more than $180,000 combined. According to campaign financial disclosure statements, as of July 10, republican candidate John Mehr has raised $196,451. His contender, Rick Staples has raised nearly a $100,000 less with a total of $99,261. Some donations are coming from out-of-county and even out-of-state. Both candidates have funding from donors living outside the Madison County or Jackson city limits. Mehr says this is because of his career with the TBI. Which he credits to allowing him to familiarize himself with other communities. Staples says his outside donations are from former Madison county or Jackson residents. Mehr began raising money in the fall of 2013, about three months before Staples. Staples says he only began running in December and could not raise funds until he chose a treasurer. Both candidates agree one campaign expense eats most of their dollars — advertisements.
