Adkinson basks in win over Sheriff Johnson, prepares for next test

DeFUNIAK SPRINGS - Michael Adkinson Jr. says he was "absolutely floored" by the support he received in Tuesday's Republican primary, when he easily defeated two-term Walton County Sheriff Ralph Johnson and five challengers.

"We won by much more than I expected, and I'm extremely grateful for the voter turnout," said Adkinson, city marshal of DeFuniak Springs.

He won 2,729 votes, or about 41 percent of the ballots cast. His closest rival, Tom Cooper, won 1,644 votes, or about 25 percent.
Johnson came in third, with 1,170 votes, or 17.5 percent.

"I'm disappointed, but I think we had a good run at it and we kept it clean, and I have no regrets," Cooper said.

As far as supporting Adkinson in the general election, Cooper said he has not spoken with him but added, "I'm a Republican and we're supposed to support each other."

Adkinson attributed his success partly to the good example DeFuniak Springs police have set for a successful department and because he made it clear to voters that they would be treated fairly no matter the circumstances. Treat people fairly, he said, and lawmen will earn their respect.

"I do this because I choose to do this, not out of a need to be sheriff or chief of police," said Adkinson, who added that that working in law enforcement is more of a calling than a job.

After gathering with family, friends and supporters for a post-election celebration, the self-described workaholic was back on the job Wednesday morning, although admittedly excited about getting started on his platform of change if he wins the general election.

That includes restructuring and reorganizing the Sheriff's Office, consolidating the 911 communication system, getting the department started on the accreditation process and raising the level of professionalism.

However, Adkinson first must defeat Democrat Danny Griffith in November.

He called Griffith a "very serious and capable opponent" and said he expected the general election to be a much tighter race.

One of the disadvantages during the primary was that the candidates had different priorities, and "it's hard to get your message out with seven candidates," Adkinson said. But with only two candidates left, it will be easier to connect with the public - and he said he is open to holding town-hall-style meetings so he and Griffith can get those messages out.

"I would look forward to any public event where people can come forward and ask direct questions so they can get the opportunity to hear where we stand on the issues," he added.