There were a lot of contenders seeking the office of Guilford County Sheriff this year – three on the Democratic side of the ticket and six on the Republican side – but only two remain after the primary elections on Tuesday, May 17.
Democratic Incumbent Sheriff Danny Rogers, and Phil Byrd, who has a great deal of experience in the Guilford County Sheriff’s Department, where he’s served as a captain and worked in several different divisions will face each other in November.
Rogers, as the incumbent who four years ago knocked off longtime Republican Sheriff BJ Barnes, was expected to win easily in the Democratic primary this year – and he did. He got 58 percent of the vote, leaving Therron “TJ” Phipps with 30 percent and Juan Monjaras with 12 percent.
On the Republican side, Byrd won by less of a margin than Rogers, but he still ended up with a comfortable lead. Byrd pulled in 40 percent of the vote and ended up ahead of Billy Queen, who had 33 percent. There was a big drop in votes after those two men’s votes were counted –no other candidate in the packed race got more than 10 percent. Randy Powers, who was second in command when Barnes ran the department, got 9.77 percent of the vote, while Ed Melvin, who was second in command under Rogers at the start of Rogers’ term, got 9.62 percent. William White got 4.96 percent of the vote and Adam Perry Moore ended up with just 2.67 percent.
The General Election sheriff’s race on Nov. 8 between Rogers and Byrd is expected to be one of the more intense political battles this year.
This race will decide the direction the citizens of Guilford County want to see law enforcement go. On the one hand you have a veteran officer who served with honor and integrity, that being Phil Byrd, on the other you have a person who has been charged and convicted of criminal charges in the past, which had it been known would have brought his integrity and fitness into question.. A person who had numerous liens where he had not paid his bills, a person who was fired from the sheriffs office he now heads. A person who had his chief deputy quit because the chief deputies reputation and integrity meant more to him than a job doing what he loved, that being Ed Melvin. In Rogers, you have a person who was swept in office by the money and efforts of a get out the vote effort for Congress woman Kathy Manning and a media who avoided exposing his past because they feared being labeled as racist. Now some of the haters who read this will say it is sour grapes on my part because I lost against Rogers. You would be wrong. I say these things because they are true and I challenge you to prove me wrong. I say these things because I served this county as a deputy for 9+ years, as its sheriff for 24 years and I care about it and its citizens and the other men and women who served and now serve. That has nothing to do with sour grapes. My record of being the longest serving sheriff in county history, a 66% reduction in crime and national recognition as being an innovator in law enforcement speaks for itself. I hope the voting citizen, no matter the party affiliation will look at these two men and ask yourself a simple question. If I needed help and in todays environment you may. Who would you put your trust in? If your answer is honest and without party or racial bias, the answer is Phil Byrd.
Well stated Sheriff Barnes! If you love Guilford County vote for Phil Byrd !
Good response Sheriff, and to me you’ll always be known by me as the Sheriff.
We voted for Phil, and having been county government in the past, I can tell you he is a man of integrity.
This from a guy who was kissing Melvin’s rump about two weeks ago. My guess is: “in your book” anyone but Danny Rogers, that’s ok but how about you pick one guy and stick with him or her. I would say your “Wishy/Washy” flip flopping has more to do with resentment and dislike for Rodgers who put you out of a job, more than actually backing a candidate.
Honestly, if I was running for anything YOU would be the last person I would want to endorse me. (One day I’m with you – The next day I’m not).
Question: why didn’t we see any smiling pictures of you with Mr. Byrd before the election…? Could it be Melvin bought you breakfast that morning…? In case you didn’t realize it Melvin is about as qualified to run a Sheriffs Dept. as Joe Biden is to be President. But one thing about Melvin, he’s cagey and scheming he was setting you up to run the Sheriffs Dept. in case (real long-shot) he actually won, but you were just to stupid to realize it.
He should stick to picking and mowing weeds, and you should stick to visiting the deli counter at “The Olympic Restaurant” two things you both do well.
Get lost both of you …!!!
Danny Rogers?? You forgot to put the ‘s’ at the end of your name!! This sounds like you with all the misspelled words and terrible grammar. But then I read it again and it’s actually better than you normally speak. Did someone assist you with this?
Rogers, If you’re a Byrd supporter, you’re not helping him at all with those childish comments. Byrd, you may want to place a muzzle on this idiot.
Did you mean to say Ed Melvin should go back to “picking cotton”, Because you don’t “pick” grass sir! … and it’s obvious you’re a Phil Byrd supporter. Do all of his supporters think like you?
In my opinion Ed Melvin was the only candidate that had a message that resonated with people. But he was fighting against the wind. Powerful forces wanted to place their candidate at the top. So the heads of the GOP party began denouncing Melvin to voters at every turn. I’m not even sure Melvin knew about this. They made every effort to advise voters against voting for Melvin. That’s how Melvin lost. They say politics is a dirty business.
Now Byrd instead of Melvin will challenge Rogers in November. If I was a betting person, I would have rather place my money on Melvin going against Rogers instead of Byrd. I think everyone else would truthfully feel the same way. When the GOP pushes a weak candidate to go against an incumbent like Rogers, they inadvertently gives Rogers another term. I’m my opinion Melvin would have been better suited for the job.
Voters place a lot of weight on the opinions of the GOP higher ups.
The next 4 years look to be worse than the past 4. Look at the statistics. 75,000 registered voters just voted. A whole lot more Democrat over Republican. A grand total of almost 300,000 Guilford County Registered voters stayed home and DID NOT VOTE. That is why we have so many problems. Many voters arrived at the Polls not even knowing what races were being held and/or not even knowing who to vote for, not doing there research. How do I know this? I worked 3 different Polling sites over the 15 early voting and Primary day. Did the 23,000 + people know that current Sheriff Rogers still has approx. 95 vacancies. He started day one by firing 28 experienced Deputies, many veteran deputies have left, retired, etc. since then and he does many recruiting TV ads right before the election (good timing on the County taxpayers dime), but can not keep a full staff and requires many to work many overtime hours just to maintain the status quo, which causes poor service due to fatigue. Did those voters know that 4 RESIDENTS (what he calls them, I call them inmates awaiting trial) died in his facility the past 3 years. Did those voters know that several Detention Officers were injured by RESIDENTS, 1 seriously and almost died and will never work again. Again this is due to his leadership. By the way it looks he will get re-elected in November because Democrats come out almost 2-1 over Republican voters. Its a shame the Sheriff isn’t put in place by a board who does background checks (Rogers flunks) and who evaluates experience, training, leadership skills, communication skills, etc.. Guilford County would be a lot better off if that were the case. People should also look at the County as a whole. The Democratic vote in High Point City and Greensboro City are the highest, which both cities are protected and served by the City Police Departments. The rural County area that is served by the Sheriffs Department overwhelmingly is won by the Republican voters. Does this make sense? This is a major head scratcher. Lets all watch what happens the next 4 years.
Phil Byrd is the only answer. As the above comment mentioned , you truly have just one choice. A convicted criminal , who is making a mockery of the department. or a man that KNOWS law enforcement , who KNOWS how to run this office and who has the respect of most everyone that you talk to about him. Rogers can just take his custom vests and his so called degree in criminal justice and go back to where ever he came from. Guilford county will be getting a new Chief of GPD and we desperately need a new Sheriff with integrity and knowledge.
This race will determine if the voters in Guilford County have any sense.
I’ve seen these “trust me” TV ads from Chief Rogers. Trust is neither given nor taken. It is earned.
Thank you for the truth.
These are some of the challenges for Byrd:
1. Rogers is great at showing this “humble, caring” side to the public. That’s all most of the public sees. Many of them don’t know, and in most cases, don’t care to know about the plights at the sheriff’s office. They just see this “caring” person fighting to make things right. What they don’t know is that he’s a fraud.
2. For the most part, a Sheriff campaigns 365 days a year. His face is seen often in the media. His words are often publicly heard. He’s constantly at speaking engagements and functions. Byrd is a new candidate going against an incumbent. Byrd did not have the luxury of “campaigning” 365 days a year for the last 3+ years at the taxpayers expense.
3. The “low information” voter is going to vote only one way. They don’t care what the repercussions are. Case and point: Biden is tearing this country apart. Gas, food and practically everything else are now 3 times the price of what they once were. Our border is being over ran and we’re writing large checks to those who are crossing illegally. We’re now at the brink of war. The dollar is losing value due to the relentless printing of money. It goes on and on and on. But these voters will still vote for Biden…..
Byrd will have an uphill battle but not an impossible one. He must challenge Rogers to at least 3 public debates prior to November. The public must see how Rogers cannot deny the truth. Rogers’ ineptitude and the things he has done to destroy the Sheriffs Office needs to be exposed. Rogers will not be able to whisper in the ears of his constituents and say; “They are lying”, or “they’re attacking me because I’m black”. It would really help if these debates are televised. But that would be wishful thinking, because even some media outlets seem to shy away from any negative publicity relating to Rogers or other minority politicians. It appears the Rhino Times is all that’s left.
I campaigned on helping the Sheriff’s Office – Not helping myself – I am fine. I lost the race and although I’m still perplexed at the results, my desire to help the Sheriff office is still alive and well. I, along with the other candidates, plan to assist Byrd, but it’s ultimately up to Byrd to finish the job.
I agree with everything BJ Barnes said and I hope, for the sake of the Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Guilford County, we send Rogers packing in November.
How about you answer this question, If Rodgers is such a bad guy then I guess you’re about as bad at judging character, yes-no…? As not to long ago you accepted his job as second guy in. I’m pretty sure you had sit downs with this fraud and I’m pretty sure Rodgers wouldn’t have picked you as his second unless you were a Democrat, which makes you a fraud. Not to mention a “Back Stabber” anyone that can put two and two together should be very glad you got crushed like a bug and the nobody going nowhere you are.
Talk about an idiot. You brad are a top shelf one! Just to let you know there are republicans who currently work under the dem Sheriff. And if you want to exercise some of your little brain take a look at board of elections (public) info shows Melvin has been a Republican for decades and prior and independent. Never a dem.
Wow, brad you are plenty of stupid. I wonder why it’s hard for crazy people to accept everyone doesn’t have to stay on a sinking ship. Open you small mind brad.
“I campaigned on helping the Sheriff’s Office – Not helping myself” –
Yeah sure … I suppose your state contract is all about helping the people see over the median strips on the roadway, because you’re just such a great guy, who ONLY cares about his fellow man – correct…? It’s never about Money – hahahahahahaha … I’m sure there are Dumbo’s out there that will believe that line of poop, they voted for Biden and a few, not many, actually voted for you.
You lost, GO AWAY…!!! No one cares about the losers –
This from a retired DMV worker making $20K a year in retirement if he’s lucky. He’s going to tell you how to do it. I think they carry squirt guns cause they can’t give then real guns cause their not real cops. Sort of like Barney from Andy of Mayberry.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjokaSzeyEE
BJ, You lost four years ago, and it was not close. You are still such a hater and sore loser. Your comments clearly reflect what a big sore loser you are. Move on. Enjoy the nice beach house and your big tax-payer paid pension.
Mary Ann or is it Karen Ann do you want some wine with your liberal cheese
Looks like we will look at Byrd signs for two years — not in compliance with campaign sign ordinances.
Why not comply with that law that limits campaign signs to weeks before the election — like others — and they are not running to lead law enforcement.
This guy here is SO stupid he thinks the election is in 2024 … you must have “backed the Hack”. Some people just think they should be handed jobs, contracts, cell phones and food stamps because of their race not their qualifications.
Qualifications, huh – who needs them when you fall into a certain social category you can get whatever you want for free, no interest loans, free education, free money, free cell phones, contracts given not earned, can’t be turned away for anything OR ELSE – right, yup that’s right…
Luck and strategy is the equation to beat Rogers. I hope Phil Bryd and his team has one!
Unfortunately, folks with no common sense vote. They resort to stone-walling and mud-slinging because they have no real argument.
i feel , the good ol boy mentality was why Mr Barns was defeated , many people were just ready for ANY CHANGE , good or not so good ! . BUT THE NEW FELLA (Rodgers ) FAILED in many aspects ! 1, He lost much Knowledge , And On the job EXPERIENCE ,BY FIRING MANY . 2. RACIAL /transfers to jobs they had no qualifications for. 3. TO MUCH , CHANGE with the racial motive / shady ! we the people want / wish AUTONOMY thinking could be a motivating FACT !
I recently became of age to vote. It is disappointing to see how “cut throat” some of you seasoned voters are. I turn to Rhino for good information and input. But what do I get…a bunch of immature read. Granted, we have the freedom of speech but insulting people you don’t support is pathetic. I am so happy my parents did not raise me to be mean spirited. Everyone can agree to disagree but belittling people is not setting a good example to those of us trying to grow and learn. Come on seasoned folks, stop the foolery!
Byrd doesn’t have a chance. Republicans will sit home and not vote, while the Democrats show up in big numbers. Byrd will just be wasting his $25 hot dog fundraiser money. We will be stuck with Rodgers for another 4 years. The Dept. will go over 100 vacancies and continue to overwork the staff and under serve the citizens of the County.
I agree DAVID! GC has lost already with Bryd. I hate that! Oh well….maybe the master minds who pulled forces together to get Byrd the win will wake up. I imagine Rodger’s and his supporters are laughing and sipping coffee as they wait on November.
Agreed – Republicans are lazy when it comes to voting and have on loyalty to their party so the criminal will win again.
It’s some ignorant dummies in GC. Especially the uneducated ones that chimed in on the 26th! We can clearly pick out the ones that read with NO read understanding. SMH at the obvious dumb bells! You may want to stick to watching cartoons because you are clueless and sound like a total fool.
MELVIN IS A DEMOCRAT
MELVIN IS A DEMOCRAT
MELVIN IS A DEMOCRAT
MELVIN IS A DEMOCRAT
MELVIN IS A DEMOCRAT
MELVIN IS A DEMOCRAT
WAKE UP YOU STUPID PEOPLE …!!!
Wiley,
Let me help you. Go to the Board of Election and read. The man has been a Republican for DECADES.
If you can READ, go take a look. Following stop spreading lies!
Joe
Wiley is a birdbrain!
Guildford County Board of Elections list Melvin as a Republican and it states Melvin has been a Republican for many many moons. (YEARS)…Wiley is liar!
There is a truth for you.
Shame on you birdbrain.