GOP candidate exits sheriff’s race

Apr 01, 2026 at 07:00 am by Arthur-RB


Mike Patterson says he is no longer a candidate for the Washington County Sheriff post in the upcoming November general election.

Patterson, a former sergeant and investigator in the Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), announced his unofficial status in a Facebook post last week and later confirmed his decision in discussion with the Beacon.

“After a lot of prayer, I just decided I’m very happy where I’m at,” Patterson said. “I’m at a point (in law enforcement) where I can retire any day I choose. I think I had a decent chance to win the election, but Washington County’s Sheriff’s Office is in shambles. I feel like it would take eight years to rebuild...”

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