BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C.–To say Tuesday’s Republican runoff for Berkeley County sheriff was a close one for much of the night is certainly an understatement.
In the end, however, Duane Lewis, captured approximately 52 percent of the vote, beating Brian Adams who had hoped the second time running would be the charm.
When everything was said and done, only about 400 votes separated the two candidates for sheriff.
“I’m obviously very happy about the turnout. We ran a positive campaign, but I want to thank the people of Berkeley County that came out and supported me tonight,” stated Lewis after the unofficial results were announced. “I can’t say it enough. This was an important election.”
Lewis celebrated his victory at Gilligan’s Restaurant in Goose Creek. Many of the folks in attendance included former solicitor Charlie Condon, Berkeley Co. School Board member Mac McQuillin and Berkeley Co. Republican Chair Tim Callanan.
Several sheriff candidates who ran against Lewis during the primary, including Jerry Merrithew and Bonneau Police Chief Franco Fuda, also attended Lewis’ victory party.
“There were a lot of issues that the public had and their concerns were brought forward to me, and my message resonated with the people of Berkeley County. I’m thankful for where we are,” stated Lewis.
After the polls closed Tuesday, North Charleston police officer Brian Adams and his team anxiously watched as the results came in from the Crowfield Country Club. However, after finishing second with 48 percent of the vote—Adams headed to Gilligan’s to congratulate Lewis in person on his win.
“I’m not going to let it beat me down. I think the important thing is that we get back into it. I wholeheartedly am asking all of my supporters and those that stood behind me that now it’s time to start supporting Duane,” stated
Adams. “Let’s start pushing forward in beating the democratic candidate June 9th”
During Lewis’ victory party, he stated that he was humbled by Adams’ presence and that it spoke to his character.
“I’m so thankful to have Brian standing here with me tonight. I can’t thank him and his family enough. It really means the world to me,” stated Lewis. “Brian’s campaign brought up a lot of ideas, a lot of good issues that also resonated with the public. I’m thankful for them. I thank there’s a place in this campaign where we are going to come together for the common good of Berkeley County and the people here.”
Lewis added that he welcomes Brian, his wife, family and many supporters in helping him push ahead for what he hopes to be another successful campaign.
After Tuesday’s win, Lewis stated that he has no plans to slow down. He’s now gearing up for the general election where he will face democratic challenger Anthony Smalls, a deputy at the Berkeley Co. Sheriff’s Office.
“I look forward to facing the democratic challenger. We’re on the right track. We’re moving forward, and we’re going to do positive things for you,” stated Lewis.
The general election for sheriff in Berkeley County will take place on June 9th.
According to election officials, voter turnout was around nine percent.
During the primary–that number was slightly higher at 13 percent.
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