Dallas County Sheriff Mike Granthum says his current term, which ends in January 2027, will be his last, marking the close of a law enforcement career that has spanned more than four decades.
In a candid reflection, Granthum said a recent health scare reshaped his priorities and ultimately led him to step away from another campaign.
That health scare was emergency open-heart surgery to address a 99.9% blockage in his "widow maker" artery. During which he actually went into cardiac arrest on the operating table.
“You get a different priority in life of what direction you want to head, and I've decided not to run this time,” he said. “I've been working since I was 15 years old… it’s time to rest, time to relax a little bit, and make sure my health is good.”
Granthum, who first ran for sheriff with the intention of serving only one term, said he sought a second term out of loyalty to his employees and the community. Voters returned him to office in 2022, a gesture for which he says he remains deeply grateful.
“Dallas County has definitely given me three times that much back,” he said. “I thank the public for giving me the opportunity to work here and serve them.”
He praised the staff of the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, calling them “the best Sheriff's Office that anybody can have,” and said their support played a major role in his decision-making.
Although he will not appear on the ballot, Granthum emphasized that he still has a full year left in office, and he intends to finish strong.
“Bad guys, I'm still coming to get you,” he said with a laugh. “Granthum’s still here, and we're still going to do our job.”
As for who might seek the position next, Granthum said the qualifying period has not yet produced a list of candidates. But he urged residents to support whoever steps forward.
“Whoever gets in office, we need to get behind them and support them,” he said. “Give them a chance. Don’t just knock them because they’re not Sheriff Granthum.”
He added that he hopes voters choose someone with experience, education and a genuine commitment to serving the people, not someone chasing a title.
Granthum said he believes the county would likely have supported him again if he had chosen to run, but the timing felt right to step aside.
“It’s just time,” he said. “I’ve given so much to Dallas County, and Dallas County has given me so much back.”
With one year left in office, Granthum says his focus remains unchanged: protecting the community and ensuring a smooth transition for whoever follows him.
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