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Michael Chad Pennell
Office history
Current office and 2026 campaign
Michael Pennell is a candidate for Alexander County Sheriff in North Carolina 1. He previously served as the county sheriff after winning the office in 2022 4. Prior to his election, Pennell held the rank of captain within the Alexander County Sheriff's Office before retiring from active duty in July 2020 6.
Pennell is running in the Republican primary for the position, which is part of the slate of candidates set for the 2026 Primary Election 7. The general election for this office is scheduled for November 3, 2026 8. As of December 2025, Pennell was listed as a candidate in the filing process for the 2026 elections 9. He is currently listed on the ballot for the Alexander County Sheriff race unopposed 8.
Background and education
Michael Pennell was born in 1970 1. He self-describes as a Christian and attended North Carolina State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in political science and a master's degree in public administration 1.
Career
Chad Pennell served in law enforcement for many years before entering elected office 2. He retired from the Alexander County Sheriff’s Office as a captain 6. During his tenure, he worked within the agency's various divisions, which include criminal investigations, patrol, and the K-9 unit 3. His colleague Detective Travis Pennell is also listed among the staff of the Alexander County Sheriff's Office 3.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Pennell holds a real estate license in North Carolina 12. He has been active in the local real estate market, with records indicating transactions involving buyers and sellers in the region 14. He is also associated with the North Carolina Association of Real Estate Brokers 13.
Pennell’s professional background includes service on the Alexander County Board of Commissioners 1. He ran for this position in the 2026 Republican primary, marking his first run for public office according to his campaign materials 10. Prior to that, he served as a commissioner, where he addressed county issues such as property reappraisals 11. He is also listed in digital collections regarding Alexander County officials 5.
Office history
Michael Pennell has served on the Alexander County Board of Commissioners in North Carolina 1. He is currently a candidate for the office of County Sheriff 1.
Sources
Public filings
Candidates and officeholders are required by law to file campaign finance reports and statements of economic interest. The sites below don't support direct links to an individual record — search by last name on each.
North Carolina — campaign finance
- State, county, and municipal candidates — all in one system — NC State Board of Elections — Committee Search. Search by last name “Pennell”.
North Carolina — statement of economic interest
- Required for state-elected and many local officials — NC State Ethics Commission — Statement of Economic Interest Search. Search by last name “Pennell”.