Sheriffs are considered the top law enforcement officers in their jurisdiction, typically counties. They are also the highest authority in their county, meaning, no other authority, Chief of Police, State Police, or even the Governor out ranks them.
When I was very young growing up in Boise, Idaho, my father was elected Sheriff of Ada County in 1959.
I was four years old and my father was twenty-seven. He held the office of Sheriff for three, two year terms, then went to work in the private sector as a detective and head of security for a large corporation.
When I was about seventeen, my father headed the campaign to elect a new Sheriff in Ada County, and was then appointed the title of Director, Inspector, Captain of the Ada County Sheriff’s Department, I helped a lot in that campaign, and we did win.
The upcoming election for Sheriff in Blaine County is very important due to the fact that integrity is paramount. Morgan Ballis and Aaron Hughston are the two candidates for the office of Sheriff in Blaine County.
I have lived in Blaine County for forty-three years, and personally knew two of the past three Sheriffs, well. I don’t know Mr. Ballis personally, but what I’ve read about him and what I have heard about him from many people is that hands down he’s the best candidate for the office of Sheriff.
Ballis sounds like he has integrity.
Aaron Hughston on the other hand, I do know, not very well, just enough to know that he is an unsavory character. The few times I’ve dealt with him, he left an impression on me like no one ever. Integrity is not a trait known to Hughston.
Since my first encounter with Hughston, many years ago, when he owned Tamarack Sports in Hailey, I couldn’t believe how someone with his demeanor could possibly stay in business. I have yet to meet anyone that thought he was a good guy. Mostly I hear many explicit words describing him.
Just recently it has come to my attention that Aaron Hughston has perpetrated a smear campaign against Morgan Ballis with allegations that may or may not be true and maybe going back many years. This is unscrupulous, immoral, and downright dirty pool, and a sign of desperation.
I can’t imagine what could possibly happen if Hughston was our Sheriff.
Vote for Morgan Ballis for Sheriff of Blaine County, 2024
Shean Gilbert
Hailey