Sheriff Talton endorses Lt. Matt Moulton in Houston County Sheriff’s race
The endorsement comes after Talton announced that he would not be seeking re-election after serving as Sheriff for over five decades
WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Sheriff Cullen Talton has made it clear who he wants to take over his job after he retires – Lt. Matt Moulton.
“He’s going to be our next Sheriff,” said Talton to a room filled with law enforcement, community leaders, and family members. The announcement comes just a month after Moulton announced his candidacy via Facebook.
Having the endorsement of Talton is a major win for Moulton as he seeks to become the next sheriff. Talton has served in the role for over five decades – earning him the title of being the longest-serving active sheriff in the state of Georgia.
“It still doesn’t mean I can just sit back and expect to get the job,” said Moulton, who expressed that he is aware that he is in a highly competitive race.
Houston County District Attorney William Kendall and former Houston County Sheriff’s Office employee Slate Simons are still actively campaigning for the job – with both seen a formidable candidates.
Moulton says as he continues to campaign, his major focus is manpower as the sheriff’s office continues to work through staffing shortages.
Candidates for Houston County Sheriff officially qualify in early March, with the election scheduled for May 20th.
We asked candidate and DA William Kendall for his reaction to the endorsement; he released the following state to 41NBC News:
While I greatly appreciate Sheriff Talton and the years of excellent service he has dedicated to our community, this news does not change our campaign strategy of service and integrity. The sheriff is the highest ranking law enforcement officer in the county and a constitutional office. Therefore, it should be left to the people of Houston County to choose who their next sheriff will be based on experience, track record, and who is best equipped to serve. Simply put, this is not a position that can be handed down or given to a friend. I’m sure voters respect Sheriff Talton’s opinion, but Matt Moulton will have to earn the support of the citizens of this county like any other candidate.
Our campaign has had incredible momentum with an amazing outpouring of local support, which includes leaders in the community who already knew of Sheriff Talton’s hand-picked successor. We will continue working hard to earn votes through qualifications not political influence. I wish each candidate the best in pursuit of office during this election and the very best to Sheriff Talton as he closes out his final term in office and his extraordinary career.
Semper Fi and God Bless!
Will Kendall
Candidate for Houston County Sheriff
