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Michael Chad Pennell
Office history
Current office and 2026 campaign
Michael Chad Pennell, who goes by Chad Pennell, is the incumbent Sheriff of Alexander County, North Carolina. He is running for re-election to that office in 2026. Pennell was first elected Sheriff of Alexander County in November 2022, defeating a longtime incumbent, and was sworn in on December 5, 2022.
Background and education
Pennell is a lifelong Alexander County resident. He holds a high school diploma from Alexander County High School and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Criminal Justice and Protective Services from Wilkes Community College. He is also a United States Army veteran.
Career
Pennell spent 30 years with the Alexander County Sheriff's Office before retiring, then ran for Sheriff and won. At the time of his 2026 re-election campaign he had accumulated approximately 33 years of total law enforcement experience.
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”.