The race for Maricopa County's next Sheriff saw leading Republican candidates take the debate stage yesterday, each making their case to voters. According to KTAR, the stage was set with Frank Milstead, Jerry Sheridan, and Mike Crawford vying for the GOP nomination in a bid to succeed Russ Skinner, who is currently serving after being appointed in the wake of Paul Penzone's resignation.

Penzone, who stepped down with nearly a year left in his term, handed over the reins to Skinner. Penzone had been at the helm since 2016, defeating notorious Republican incumbent Joe Arpaio. The role of sheriff has long been, a politically charged position in Maricopa County. Historically known for its hardline approaches to law enforcement and immigration, Penzone's departure marks a significant transition in the county's law enforcement leadership, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix.

Milstead, a fixture in Arizona law enforcement, is contemplating adding sheriff to his extensive resume. Before making his run, Milstead was chief of the Mesa Police Department for half a decade and had a 25-year tenure with the Phoenix Police Department. Similarly, his adversary Sheridan is no stranger to the office, having served as former Sheriff Joe Arpaio's longtime chief deputy, and making a bid for the position in 2020. Crawford, the third Republican contender, boasts over two decades of service within the Glendale Police Department, entering the race with a wealth of frontline experience before retiring in 2021.