DELAND, Fla. - Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood announced on Tuesday that he will be seeking re-election in 2024, going for a third term in office. He made the announcement at DeLand City Hall.
Since he was first elected in 2016, Chitwood has created a robust personal brand inherent to his leadership style. In the common instances where he leaves political correctness behind and lets his emotions be known, he's largely set himself apart from his predecessors and current law enforcement colleagues.
In the last six months Chitwood has become especially well-known for his pointed disdain for neo-Nazi organizers in the area, leading to international recognition and praise. Four suspects have been arrested for online death threats against Chitwood for these comments, signifying that the Sheriff's campaign is making waves within hate groups nationwide.
Immediately after Chitwood spoke at the event, he introduced Brodie Hughes, President of the Volusia County Deputies Association. Hughes endorsed Chitwood on behalf of the VCDA, an expected move which will strengthen the Sheriff's re-election campaign. "We appreciate everything you do for us," he said.
Chitwood faced no opponents in his first re-election campaign back in 2020, and defeated four other candidates in the 2016 general election. So far he's the first candidate to declare for the 2024 Volusia Sheriff election, and certainly stands as a favorite against any potential opposition.
