CLEVELAND, Tenn. -- The two candidates for Bradley County sheriff each claim the other has been spreading untruths.
Republican Jim Ruth and Democrat Steve Lawson met Wednesday for their only debate so far in the campaign. The debate was broadcast and videostreamed at radio station WOOP-FM.
Both claimed better qualifications for the job. They agreed, though, that whoever inherits the department budget just submitted to the County Commission will face tough spending priorities.
Mr. Ruth and Mr. Lawson are department captains in Sheriff Tim Gobble's administration. Mr. Gobble is running for the Republican nomination in the 3rd Congressional District.
Capt. Lawson said his conservative values, track record with the Criminal Investigations Division and good relations with the County Commission are needed in the department.
Capt. Lawson questioned the status of the current handgun permit program, which Mr. Ruth directs and which is featured on his campaign website.
"One of my opponent's claims to fame is the handgun safety/concealed weapon permit class," Capt. Lawson said in his opening remarks. "I can tell you that a letter was issued after the (Tennessee Department of Safety) inspection in January 2010. The letter was sent to Captain Ruth, I believe on February 18, 2010. It cited deficiencies with the handgun/ concealed carrying class."
Later, Capt. Lawson said some people who thought they were certified under the program might not be, and that the letter could mean the program could be suspended.
Capt. Ruth responded that "to attack the gun permit program and what we have succeeded in doing is just a little bit of desperation."
Later, Capt. Ruth told Capt. Lawson that, "You don't know what you are talking about."
In his closing remarks, Capt. Ruth said he has tried to stick to the issues during the campaign.
"My opponent and his operatives have tried to go around the issues and spread lies about me (such as) who I am going to make chief deputy and other things," he said. "None of what they say is true. There is no incumbent sheriff, so the real issue is who is more qualified and prepared to lead us into the future."
ELECTION DATESJuly 7: Last day to register to vote in August electionJuly 16-31: Early votingAug. 5: Election DayOct. 4: : Last day to register to vote in November electionOct. 13-28: Early votingNov. 2: Election DaySource: Tennessee Division of Elections
Both men said they have made no decisions about whom they would appoint to top positions if elected.
Capt. Ruth said his goals are to further reduce burglaries and drug crimes, encourage and train deputies for future leadership, encourage community involvement and carefully watch resources.
"I will set a new standard of fairness and respect for all people," he said. "I have not pressured anyone to vote for me. Nor have I intimidated or threatened anyone."
Capt. Lawson countered with criticism of his opponent's claims of an aboveboard campaign. He cited a Ruth ad slamming "cronyism (and) good ol' boys' days."
"Tell me that's above the board," he said. "The bottom line is if you run this race above the board, I will run it above the board. The bottom line is I will use documented information to run this campaign. I'm not saying anything bad about Jim Ruth. I have never questioned his honesty, nor his integrity. I hope he feels the same about me."
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