UPDATED 7:02 A.M. 2/10/26
Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The only Democratic candidate who would have been on the March primary election ballot in the race for Sangamon County Sheriff says he’s dropping out, and his own political party is to blame.
Former Illinois State Police Master Sergeant Marc Bell, in a letter addressed to Sangamon County residents, says his candidacy was “contingent on the full support of the Sangamon County Democratic Party to secure and experienced and knowledgeable campaign management team to put us in the best possible position to win this challenging race.”
Bell says the party has been unwilling to do that, calling the need for such a team “crucial resources.”
That means, unless the Democrats slate a candidate to run in November, the next sheriff could be incumbent Republican Paula Crouch, or fellow Republican David Timm — a former longtime sheriff’s deputy.
In a statement sent to CapitolCityNow and WTAX The Sangamon County Democratic Party says it is not pleased with Bell’s decision.
“Earlier (Monday), the Sangamon County Democratic Party was informed that Marc Bell would be ending his campaign for Sangamon County Sheriff,” said Dan Kovats, vice chair. “While we are disappointed by Marc’s decision, we remain ready to aggressively support our candidates as they work to move our community forward. We will immediately begin searching for a new candidate to run and we look forward to working hard to elect that person in November.”
According to the party’s website, there are few Democrat candidates for seats on the County Board, and virtually none for other county offices. A number of them are listed as “TBA.”
“Although I am ending this campaign, my commitment to this community remains unchanged,” Bell wrote. “I dedicated over 40 years of my life to serving and protecting the communities of Illinois. I will continue to serve, contribute, and work toward a safer and stronger Sangamon County.”
The primary is March 17th, but early voting has begun.
This story was updated to reflect the party’s response to Bell’s withdrawal.
