"Prince George’s County is on the road to excellence but I’m running for County Executive to make the journey a reality."
With those words, a familiar face in Prince George's County law enforcement kicked off his campaign for county executive.
Prince George's County Sheriff Michael Jackson announced he's running for the seat being vacated by incumbent Jack Johnson, who's leaving the office because of term limits.
Jackson returned to Crossland High School, his alma mater, to make the announcement. He said his campaign will emphasize education, smart growth, and the creation of an economic climate that attracts and keeps businesses.
"I'm excited about where we are, where we're going, and I am extremely excited about Prince George's County," said Jackson. "There is no reason we cannot become No. 1 in education, No. 1 in job creation, No. 1 in tecnhology jobs, No. 1 in providing an equal quality of life for our citizens."
He said his experience managing the agency's $350 million budget and hundreds of workers has prepared him for greater things.
"I am the only candidate with executive level management experience," said Jackson. "I have overseen and managed more people and larger budgets than any of my would-be competitors."
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Former Del. Rushern L. Baker III, Del. Gerron S. Levi (D-Dist. 23) of Bowie, council members Samuel Dean (D-Dist. 6) of Mitchellville and Tony Knotts (D-Dist. 8) of Temple Hills, and Veteran Commission Chairman Henry Turner are also reportedly running for the county executive seat.
The primary will be held on Sept.r 14.
Jackson's is a familiar name to many. Since 2002, he's worked with county youth through his foundation. The Democrat was also voted into the Office of the Sheriff in 2002, and reelected in 2006.
