Like him or not, like his law enforcement tactics or not, like his politics or not, you can’t deny that former Sheriff Gerald Hege is a good story – any time.
Yes, some of you are tossing hissy fits because someone who pleaded guilty to two felony counts of obstruction of justice for attempting to cover up money missing from the vice narcotics unit of the Davidson County sheriff’s office is seeking election (or more properly re-election if you count the 10 years he previously served). But, while both state and federal laws prohibit Hege from carrying a gun, even if he is re-elected sheriff, none prohibit him from seeking office.
Keep in mind that North Carolina’s other nationally known (for TV) sheriff, Andy Taylor, carried a firearm in very few episodes. Given some of the actions Hege took with firearms when he was sheriff, it’s probably wise if he isn’t armed.
Hege seeking re-election is a good, if bizarre, political story; it’s a good human interest story considering the support he’s already drummed up among some, perhaps much, of the Davidson County constituency; and, even as cantankerous as he can be especially when newspaper reporters try to get information from him, he makes “good copy.”
Meanwhile, nobody should count Hege’s chickens before they’ve hatched. Davidson County Sheriff David Grice, also a Republican, already has said he plans to run for re-election in 2010 and lots of people – in both parties – in Davidson County believe he’s been doing a competent job as the county’s top law enforcement officer.
It should be interesting.
And, isn’t that what the “experts” have been telling us? You’ve got to have interesting races if you want to get out the vote. ... So, weigh in.
What other politicians do is also irrelevant. "Everyone's doing it" is not a defense. It's an excuse. And these theoretical people you're talking about are not convicted felons who legally cannot execute the duties of their offices.
Would someone please tell me what's the difference between Mr. Hege and the rest of the politicians! They've been holding offices on local, state, and federal levels for years, taxing and spending, but I suppose as long as you get a monthly check, you're not entitled to, it's OK?
Andy Griffith? Really? That argument was ridiculous when a member of Congress referenced Jack Bauer, and it still is.
The hissy fits are most likely from to much pink and blue they have seen .
Rock on HEGE most of us are not afraid of our dedication posted in our front yards . And all the publicity we help provide for you .
Once again in 2010 HEGE WILL SUCCEED.