SAGINAW, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — A Democratic county sheriff isn’t letting party lines dictate whom he supports in Michigan’s gubernatorial election.
Saginaw County Sheriff William Federspiel, a Democrat, announced his support for Republican gubernatorial nominee John James on Wednesday, Oct. 7.
The announcement came one day after James debated Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jocelyn Benson.
Federspiel said his support for James stems from James’ approach to law enforcement and the governor’s role in appointing judges.
“People don’t realize you want someone who’s going to appoint judges not just from a political standpoint, but from a qualification standpoint,” Federspiel told ABC12. “That’s important to me because I can’t do anything without good judges, especially at the circuit court level.”
Federspiel also endorsed Republican U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers during a campaign appearance in Saginaw on Sept. 30.
The Saginaw County Democratic Party has called on Federspiel to change his party affiliation and pledged to field a Democratic challenger in 2028.
“The Saginaw County Democratic Party calls on Bill Federspiel to change his Party affiliation NOW, we will run a true Democrat in 2028,” party chair Brandell Adams said in a social media statement.
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James and Benson’s next debate is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 15, from 8 to 9 p.m. at WDIV’s studios in Detroit. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.
