Fulton County Sheriff Ted Jackson is running for re-election as a Democrat, and is expected to have opposition in his May 24 Democrat Party primary. On the other hand, a sole Republican — Johns Creek businessman and reserve deputy Ben Cowart– is announcing his candidacy for sheriff. His campaign kickoff will be Thursday evening at the Atlanta Athletic Club with his friend and featured speaker Kris “Tanto” Paronto.
Paronto is the former Army Ranger and Benghazi hero featured in the current hit movie “13 Hours.” (Tickets can be reserved online at Cowart’s campaign website, BenForSheriff.net and attendees are encouraged to register as quickly as possible due to limited space.)
Cowart’s campaign for sheriff, according to his press release, is focusing on several issues including improving the jury duty process, fiscal accountability and addressing inter-department relations at the county Sheriff’s Department. “I’m excited about the future and this opportunity to serve the people of Fulton County. As your sheriff, I will streamline red tape and cut costs. I intend to always be looking for ways to improve our department for our constituents, our customers, and our employees. Bottom line, that’s the difference between me and others who served before me,”
Cowart was born at Crawford Long Hospital and graduated from Dunwoody High School in DeKalb County Georgia in 1983. He graduated from the Fulton County Public Safety Training Center, is a Fulton County reserve deputy and has also been a reserve officer with the Norcross Police Department, the Lawrenceville Police Department and the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Department.
The Republican candidate is president of DDCB, Inc., a family real estate company that buys, sells, and develops real estate. He also founded Cowart Development Corporation to develop and sell real estate and created Military Vehicle Specialties, LLC in 2001. That firm buys, refurbishes, and sells used military trucks and equipment. Cowart also was a member of Peachtree Corners Rotary Club from 1993-2003, including three years as club secretary.
