The race for Orange County Sheriff was one of the state’s most heated and intriguing campaigns of the last year. And now, it may be Alamance County’s turn. For more than two decades, Terry Johnson has served as Alamance County Sheriff, often easily winning elections, despite being a lightening rod for controversy and unwanted attention. This year, though, Sheriff Johnson may have is win streak challenged by an unlikely candidate.
Over the past year, if you’ve spent any time driving around Mebane, you’ve probably seen the yard signs, banners and small billboards with Shannon Long’s smiling face. Or maybe you’ve seen the big campaign van, emblazoned with Long’s image and campaign slogans. There’s a pretty good chance the barber-turned-barber school owner-turned-law enforcement officer-turned pastor was behind the wheel.
Long seemingly is everywhere, with a hand in everything. If you’re planning to talk with him, set aside additional time to account for interruptions from folks who stop by to shake his hand, or offer an opinion. It’s clear Long’s positive message and high-energy outreach in the Alamance County community has been effective…