Eric Molitor, a man acquitted last year in relation to a 2020 plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, is now running in the Republican primary against incumbent Wexford County Sheriff Trent Taylor with a message advocating for limited government involvement. Molitor, a political activist from Cadillac, Michigan, was inspired to run for sheriff after a conversation with Taylor and his brother. While Taylor has stated he would enforce the state’s “red flag” gun safety law, Molitor believes the law is unconstitutional.
Taylor, seeking a third four-year term as sheriff, believes he is constitutionally obligated to enforce the state’s laws, including the gun safety law, which makes it easier for law enforcement to seize firearms from individuals deemed dangerous. Molitor’s acquittal of charges related to the alleged kidnapping plot against Whitmer has motivated him to seek reform in the justice system. He believes individuals who have been wronged by the system, such as those acquitted in connection to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, have a duty to enact change.
Molitor does not consider himself completely “anti-government” or “anti-law enforcement” but rather sees himself as a mediator between the people and those in power. In Michigan, candidates running for sheriff must live and be eligible to vote in the county they seek to serve. Legislation recently passed in the Michigan House aims to require sheriff candidates to have law enforcement or corrections officer experience, which is currently being reviewed in the state Senate.
The Michigan Democratic Party has criticized Molitor’s candidacy for sheriff, labeling him as a “MAGA Republican” in reference to former President Donald Trump’s slogan. Despite previously aligning with liberal independent views and voting for Democrats in the past, Molitor now identifies as a Republican, citing the party’s focus on protecting rights such as free speech. He has expressed support for Trump and intends to back the Republican nominee in the upcoming election.
The Michigan Sheriffs’ Association supports the legislation that would require sheriff candidates to have law enforcement experience. While the organization did not comment on Molitor’s candidacy, citing policy, there is ongoing debate about the qualifications needed to run for sheriff in the state. Overall, Molitor’s candidacy reflects a broader political landscape in Michigan, with various candidates running for office amidst increasing scrutiny and calls for reform in the justice system and law enforcement.
