His election bid goes beyond sheriff’s office
By Lindsey Collom
The Arizona Republic
In the three months since abandoning a bid for Congress to run for re-election, Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu has been lining up allies and opining on issues outside the bounds of law enforcement.
It began in late May, when Babeu announced he’d formed a “Law & Order Team” with a Pinal County attorney candidate. Since then, he has formed other alliances with at least three hopefuls for county supervisor and a write-in candidate for constable.
He’s split the cost of shared mailers and signs that give him second billing, and he lent his voice to recorded telephone messages in support of those he wants to see in office.
Babeu’s efforts are part of what some candidates, elected officials and observers say appears to be attempts to broaden his influence in county government.
The sheriff has made no secret of his desire to oust the two sitting Democrats with whom he’s had a contentious relationship on the Board of Supervisors, which is expanding from three to five members.
Also:
Pinal Dist. 2 candidates discuss incorporation, Hunt Highway
