Independent Joseph DeWitt has filed to run against Republican nominee Jim McDonald.
Jim McDonald knows it isn't over yet.
James McDonald (Courtesy photo)The retired Washington Township police chief on Tuesday won the Republican nomination in a three-way race for the Warren County sheriff post, but will face an independent challenger for the November general election.
Joseph DeWitt, an Independence Township resident and former police officer there, said he is in the process of launching his campaign.
"It's going to be a race," DeWitt said. "I expect to be a tireless campaigner."
McDonald on Wednesday acknowledged the challenge: "I haven't won the sheriff's seat yet," he said. "I'm going to work hard to do that."
McDonald won the Republican primary on Tuesday with 4,478 votes, according to unofficial results from the county. Jim Simonetti garnered 4,261 votes, and Charlie Makatura got 3,472.
"They ran a very good campaign. I had to work for this one," McDonald said. "Third time's the charm," he quipped, noting his two previous failed campaigns.
DeWitt said he was not enthused by any of the Republican candidates, which led him to run on his own. He said his Army military police background -- including 32 years in active and reserve service and two tours in Iraq -- has prepared him for the sheriff's role.
"I set my campaign strategy on being a different kind of person," he said, "being a good steward of the people's money, and letting the people know I work for the people, the people don't work for me."
Ex-cop alleges he was fired due to age
DeWitt also worked as an Independence Township police officer for 33 years. He sued the township last year, alleging age discrimination when he was terminated in 2014 at age 65. The lawsuit has not yet been resolved, he said.
McDonald said he plans to continue on a platform of community outreach, particularly to senior citizens. He said he knocked on some 3,000 doors during the primary campaign.
"If you're in an elected position ... people should know who you are," McDonald said.
Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @type2supernovak. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.