Nomination Acceptance

May 21, 2024 / 7:14 PM

PRESS CONTACT

Ryan Smith

CHATHAM COUNTY – Kevin Burns, a former Chatham County Sheriff's Office Advanced Deputy Sheriff, has formally accepted the Democratic nomination for Sheriff of Chatham County. Burns, who announced his candidacy last August, is confident he will supplant John Wilcher in the November general election.

Burns brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served in various law enforcement roles over the years. His educational background includes an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts and a Bachelor's of Science in Paralegal Studies from St. John's University of Queens, New York.

Read the transcript of his acceptance speech below:

"As we celebrate the democratic process and the power of our collective voice, it is an honor to speak to you as the Democratic nominee for Sheriff of Chatham County. I am committed to making our community safer for all its residents, regardless of their background, religion, or race.

As we move forward in this campaign, I want to emphasize that this election is not about party lines.

It’s about our shared values, our hopes, and our dreams for a better Chatham County. We are a diverse community, and our strength lies in our ability to come together, listen to one another, and find common ground.

Safety is at the heart of my vision for the sheriff’s office. We face unique challenges as our county grows, with new developments, tourism, and an increase of residents. Crime rates have risen, and we must address this head-on.

Chatham County has better days ahead—we are better and stronger than these last eight years.

And let me be clear: safety is not a partisan issue. It affects us all, regardless of our political affiliations.

To achieve our goals, we need collaboration. I will work closely with local police departments, municipalities, and other law enforcement agencies. Let’s pool our resources, share information, and tackle crime collectively. Savannah, with its high crime rate, demands a coordinated effort. Our youth, too, deserve better opportunities and pathways away from crime.

Now, some might say that I’m challenging the incumbent because I believe in reform. And they’re right. I believe in auditing our jail system, preventing crime through community engagement, and improving training for our officers. These are not Democratic or Republican ideas—they are common-sense solutions that benefit everyone.

Remember that our county’s safety transcends political boundaries. Let’s rise above partisanship and focus on what unites us: our love for our community. Together, we can make a difference. Thank you, and let’s move forward—together. It’s time for the Sheriff you deserve."

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