The campaign of Eugene “Gino Rock” Brantley has teased a major announcement on Wednesday, scheduling a morning press conference to describe “innovative plans” in his runoff race against Richmond County Sheriff Richard Roundtree.
Last week, the candidate earned a spot in the June 18 runoff after Sheriff Roundtree failed to get 50 percent of the vote in the Democratic primary. The Brantley campaign has been seeking the endorsement of third-place finisher Bo Johnson, which should be addressed during the 11 a.m. announcement at Augusta Riverwalk at the Augusta Marriott Roundabout. His choice of a possible chief deputy may also come up.
In a press release, the Brantley campaign said the fact that over 50 percent of voters did not choose the incumbent sheriff underscores a powerful message from the voters: it’s time for change. Brantley has been serving as sergeant with the Richmond County Marshal’s Office and worked for many years at the sheriff’s office.
“That highlights a collective yearning for new leadership and fresh ideas in the Sheriff’s Office,” the press release says. “This significant moment reflects the residents’ desire for a safer, more transparent, and accountable law enforcement agency.”
Wednesday’s event is open to the public and media, the campaign said. The event will address the “future direction of the campaign and the innovative plans that will help residents make the best decision for Richmond County’s leadership.”
The campaign said the announcement promises to be a game-changer in the runoff election.
“With the stakes higher than ever, the Brantley campaign is poised to reveal a development that could reshape the race,” the release says.
Meanwhile, Sheriff Roundtree was seen campaigning over the weekend, waving signs on area roads and attending services at Greater Young Zion Baptist Church.
Possible independent candidate Richard Dixon went on The Austin Rhodes Show on Tuesday, saying he has about 60 percent of the signatures needed to appear on the November ballot against the ultimate Democrat winner. He asked listeners of the show to volunteer their time in helping him secure the 6,700 signatures.
