POLITICS

Sheriff Jones not running for Congress

Butler County sheriff decides not to challenge U.S. House Minority Leader John Boehner.

Snapshot of the Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones announcement via Twitter.com.

File photo Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones.

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By Josh Sweigart, Staff Writer Updated 7:31 AM Friday, June 19, 2009

HAMILTON — Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones says he will not challenge U.S. House Minority Leader John Boehner for the West Chester Twp. Republican’s congressional seat.

“After extensive review and discussions with various individuals in the political and private sectors; and given the current economic conditions and local needs, I have decided to continue as sheriff of Butler County,” he said in a prepared statement Thursday, June 18.

“I repeatedly heard the phrase ‘we need you as sheriff’ and during these tough times that comment continues to ring true.”

Jones’ original announcement Thursday came via the Web site Twitter.

“I have decided not to turn in my petitions for Congress. This is not the time. Congressman’s office has been notified this date. Sheriff Jones,” he posted to the site at 10:50 a.m. Thursday.

Jones pulled petitions April 28 to run in the 2010 Republican primary, but said he would decide within three months whether to actually file.

This set the stage for a potential political showdown between Jones — a media-savvy lawman who is popular in the most populous county in Boehner’s district — and one of the country’s most powerful Republicans. Prominent GOP leaders circled the wagons around Boehner, and Jones prepared a pitch to run as a Washington, D.C., outsider.

“I took out the petition to review the requirements and study the possibility of representing the 8th District constituents in Washington, and let my voice be heard for what I believe most Americans are wanting from their government,” he said.

“Although I will continue to voice my opinions about national issues plaguing our country, staying your sheriff will allow me to meet the challenges facing the safety and security of Butler County citizens first.”

Staff Writer Lauren Pack contributed to this report.

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