Buddy Harwood cruises to victory in Madison County Sheriff race

Madison County Sheriff Buddy Harwood made national news in summer 2022 when he announced Madison County Sheriff's Office law enforcement officers working in Madison County Schools will have access to AR-15s locked in safes in the event of a school shooting.

The national attention didn't impact Harwood's appeal locally, though, as the sheriff, who replaced former Sheriff John Ledford in the middle of his term, won a third consecutive election dating to 2014.

Harwood received more than two-thirds of the votes, as his 6,835 votes were good for 68.8% of votes, according to the North Carolina State Board of Elections website.

"I want to personally thank all the citizens of Madison County," Harwood said. "I’m humbled and honored by the amount of support I received during this election. I will continue to put people before politics and provide the best law enforcement possible for all of the residents of Madison County. I ask for your continued prayers and support over the next four years. Thank you all and God bless."

Republican challenger Robin Lyles received 3,097 votes, or 31.2% of votes.

"The people of Madison County decided to keep law enforcement the same," Lyles said. "Thanks to everyone who wanted change and better law enforcement protection."

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Buddy Harwood cruises to victory in Madison County sheriff race