Sheriff Chris Swanson, the sheriff of Genesee County, Michigan, gained national attention in 2020 when he joined a crowd peacefully protesting the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis Police. He gained popularity for promoting unity and solidarity with the protesters, earning praise for his actions. Swanson endorsed Kamala Harris for president during the Democratic National Convention, citing her leadership qualities and ability to unify the country. Swanson has been supportive of the Democratic party and criticized President Trump for his involvement in the January 6 insurrection.
Swanson has over three decades of experience in law enforcement and has held various roles within the Genesee County Sheriff’s office. He has been involved in initiatives such as the creation of the Genesee Human Oppression Strike Team (GHOST) to address human trafficking and sexual assault. Additionally, he has implemented programs such as Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education (IGNITE) to provide educational opportunities for inmates.
Swanson is currently running for re-election as sheriff in November and has expressed interest in potentially running for Michigan governor in 2026. He believes that he could lead the state effectively in the future, following Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s term limits. Swanson’s actions and initiatives have made him a respected figure in law enforcement and politics, with a focus on promoting unity and community engagement.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
