The Deschutes County Sheriff’s race has transformed into a soap opera, pitting two candidates against each other while each faces an internal investigation. There is also mudslinging and complaints of campaign law misconduct.

It’s nothing new to the citizens of Deschutes County, after through the 2024 sheriff’s race and countless others.

But both candidates — Ty Rupert and James “Mac” McLaughlin — said they hope to make a difference in the culture of the office to prevent the soap opera from entering another season. Differences lie, however, in how they believe that shift can be done.

James ‘Mac’ McLaughlin

McLaughlin has 19 years of experience at the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, working as a task force officer, SWAT team commander, detective and patrol sergeant on the major incident team, street crimes detective and currently as detective lieutenant leading the detective division.

Before working for the sheriff’s office, McLaughlin served in the U.S.…