It looks like there will be a sheriff race in Mojave County next year. And it looks like Mike Gannusio will once again challenge incumbent Doug Schuster, just as he did in the August 2020 Republican primary.
Schuster racked up 27,021 votes to Ganusio’s 7,061 votes, which many saw as an effort by the latter to raise his profile and endorse a second challenge. He submitted a statement of interest in seeking the Republican nomination for Mojave County Sheriff in the August primary.
Mr. Schuster confirmed that he intends to extend his term next year. The sheriff’s position is the first countywide seat so far to put a challenger in a fight against an incumbent known to run again.
An early candidate submission spree began in District 4, where five candidates have expressed their willingness to pursue seats that Jean Bishop will not defend as he works toward retirement. And she has two early candidates for the District 2 supervisor seat, which Hildy Angius says is moving out in bid for another undisclosed position.
The Bullhead City man, who was recently appointed to an elected office but will take the position he has not yet held, has already declared that he will seek another position next year. Paul Briscoe was appointed March 23 and began working as a Constable on April 5 next year, running for Bullhead City Magistrate.
Michael Van Vliet has also expressed interest in JP racing at Bullhead City.
With Christy Blair looking to retire, Lydia Durst, chief deputy registrar, drafted paperwork to run for county registrar. As a member, he said he had her support and full support.
Two incumbents, Assessor Jeanne Kench and Treasurer Sue Ann Melo, also submitted statements of their intention to seek re-election.
Thirteen citizens have already started completing their paperwork to qualify to campaign for elections in 19 months. And Election Direct Allen Tempert expects more local candidates to come forward in the coming months.
“It’s unusual,” said County Election Commissioner Allen Tempert.
