Former Conecuh County sheriff candidate Mike Blackmon is not giving up on his goal to become sheriff. He announced he will try again in 2026.
"I'm going to keep fighting and I ain't going to give in," Blackmon said.
In 2020, the sheriff's race between Blackmon and Sheriff Randy Brock ended in a tie. That was until a recount resulted in Brock winning by two votes.
Blackmon quickly contested those results, and actions taken during voting and recounting were called into question in court. Although the case has been taken all the way to the Alabama Supreme Court and remains in limbo, Blackmon said he is ready to try again. He announced his campaign for sheriff in 2026.
"I still want better for the citizens of Conecuh County," Blackmon told 1819 News. "I just want better for them because they deserve better."
While already on the campaign trail, Blackmon said he has learned that citizens are ready for a change. He said the county has a problem with drug crimes that needs to be addressed.
"We have a problem with drugs and people stealing because the people who use the drugs don't work, so they're going to steal people's stuff," Blackmon explained. "They steal and sell to get money to use drugs, so that's one of the biggest problems in this county. It needs to be addressed, and we need leadership, professionalism and accountability in all of that."
"People should feel safe in the county," he continued. "I feel like they need someone in charge that's going to do the right thing and do what's right for the people."
Blackmon previously served as a deputy and a constable, and he has nearly 30 years of management experience in transportation.
Blackmon said he has more faith in the system for the 2026 elections due to the Alabama Republican Party's interest in recruiting poll watchers and new election integrity laws.
"I've been trusting in the Lord with it all," Blackmon added.
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