To read more on the elections affecting Ocracoke, click here
On the ballot for Hyde County sheriff are candidates Carl (Guire) Cahoon, Democrat, and Larry Weston, Unaffiliated. Cahoon, the incumbent elected in 2014, is seeking re-election. This is a rematch since the two faced off in that election.
Below, in alphabetical order, are the candidates’ statements:

Guire Cahoon (Incumbent)
I have been serving the citizens of Hyde County in law enforcement for 11 years. I started my career as Deputy Sheriff in 2007, under Sheriff David T. Mason. After graduating from Basic Law Enforcement Training in 2008, I served as chief deputy with the Hyde County Sheriff’s Department. Upon Sheriff Mason’s retirement, I was elected and sworn in as sheriff in December 2014.
The qualities of being a sheriff and a public servant were instilled in me through my childhood and early adult years. Growing up, the sheriff’s office was a place I was very familiar with since my grandfather, the late Charlie Cahoon, was the sheriff. For me, becoming the sheriff has not only been a dream but a legacy. In my opinion it’s the greatest job in the world. I do this because I truly want to help people, so that, in itself is the greatest reward to me.
If elected, I will continue with the mission to protect and serve the citizens of Hyde County by providing a strong, impartial law enforcement presence that incorporates integrity, professionalism, and compassion into the daily activities of the sheriff’s office. I will continue with the strategies necessary to combat crime while making all of the necessary steps to improve the lives of all citizens of Hyde County. I believe in the sheriff’s office forming close-knit, working relationships with the citizens it serves and with all surrounding law enforcement agencies. My deputies and I strive to have daily interaction with the community in order to bond, build close relationships and get a better understanding of the needs and problems that we should be focused on.
Why do I want to continue serving as Sheriff of Hyde County? This is not a job, rather, a calling, a way of life. Simply put, I do this for the right reasons. I have a heart to serve the citizens of Hyde County in this capacity. I take being a public servant very seriously because the people of Hyde County are whom I work for. I am and always will be committed and am of the belief in being available and accessible to the citizens of this great county. I ask for your continued support and vote in the upcoming election.
Larry Weston

The reason I am running for sheriff is we need leadership for the entire county. We have a drug problem that is not getting the attention it needs. I’m only asking for the opportunity to serve the citizens of the county. Also, my capabilities of doing the job.
Any one on the island with questions may contact me at 252-542-9110.