PHOTO: Candidate for DeKalb County Sheriff Michael Edmondson released a statement, accusing his opponent Nick Welden of trying to keep him off the Republican ballot. Welden responded this afternoon. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)
By Tyler Pruett, Managing Editor
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — On Thursday night, the DeKalb County GOP Executive Committee met for a hearing regarding seven letters submitted, challenging declared candidate for DeKalb County Sheriff Michael Edmondson's qualification to appear on the ballot.
While the content of the letters in question were not released, Edmondson said that the letters were accusing him of, "being unfit to serve the people of DeKalb County as Sheriff based solely on my 18 years of experience in the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office."
Before submitting the letters, those who offered the challenge were told it would be anonymous. After a brief meeting between the Executive Committee and Edmondson's campaign, it was announced that the challengers would also have to face the committee. With around 30 Edmondson supporters (many whom work at the Sheriff's Office) crowded around the entrance to GOP Headquarters, no challengers came to face the committee.
"The last few days have been a roller coaster of questions and accusations made towards me and my campaign.
My opponent accused me of being behind letters contesting him being allowed to run as a Republican candidate for Sheriff of DeKalb County and not allowing citizens to vote the way they want.
He was quick to take a cheap shot at me only to try and gain sympathy support and paint me a villain!
I was NOT behind any letters or attempt to stop him from running. As a matter of fact I personally asked members of the qualifying committee and the chairman to allow him to run so this wouldn't turn into an old political trick as it so did!
I was told by the committee and chairman they would do what was best for the party and I had no say so !
If you were one who was quick to judge and condone another's accusations then I am sorry you fell into that trap that was apparently planned out.
I have simply tried to run a truthful, professional and honest campaign and I ask of you to open your eyes and see the tactics that were just deployed against me!
I am a simple and God fearing family man that is only trying to stand up for what is right.
I do not have a full fledged campaign team or a campaign manager that plans these types of attempts or accusations to try and turn things around or create drama that is uncalled for.
I simply try to do what's right and will continue to!
I pray for these folks and for all who will read this or was quick to judge an accusation that was meant to do harm!
I stand strong for everything that is right and GODLY but the reason I'm being falsely accused and attacked is that I stand UP to see corruption FALL!
God Bless you ALL!
Sincerely,
Nick Welden"
