10/13/2026
This post is from Windy Mease…I feel that, as someone who knows Mark better than almost anyone, I need to share why I believe his experience, character, and dedication to our county deserve serious consideration in the race for Sheriff.
First and foremost, Mark loves the Lord and that’s how he leads our house and any role we get to play in our kids and grandkids lives. I believe because of that what Mark says about himself or his accomplishments are completely truthful. He doesn’t exaggerate, and he doesn’t embellish his record. In fact, he won’t even use AI to write a post because, as he says, “It’s not coming from him.” To Mark, it matters that his words are his own and that he stands behind what he says.
Honesty matters. When it comes to an office entrusted with protecting our community and upholding the law, integrity and truthfulness are essential.
I’ve seen firsthand how deeply Mark cares, not only about the people who work at the Sheriff’s Office and their wellbeing, but also about every person in our county. I’ve watched him read letters from people he sent to prison who later told him he had saved their lives. I’ve watched tears roll down his face as he read those words. When I come home from work he asks me about all my kids at my school and, if I had been dealing with anything lately that he has knowledge of he specifically ask about those situations he listens and he genuinely cares for them. Those moments have stayed with me because they show something that a job description alone never could. He understands that behind every case is a human being, and that sometimes making a difference in someone’s life means more than words can ever express.
Experience is another important part of this conversation. Mark has spent years working in the Sheriff’s Office, understands its different areas, and served as a supervisor for much of his career there. That experience matters. Knowing how the office operates, understanding its responsibilities, and having firsthand leadership experience are things that take time to develop.
We like Tyler, and I want to make that clear. We have different political/cultural views and beliefs and that’s ok, But liking someone and having the firsthand experience and knowledge required to lead an entire Sheriff’s Office are two different things. This election should be about more than popularity. It should be about experience, integrity, leadership, accountability, and a genuine commitment to the people we serve.
This is OUR county. We all have a stake in its future, in the safety of our families, and in the people who live here. We have an opportunity to think carefully about what we want for our community and what qualifications matter most in the person who will lead our Sheriff’s Office.
I’m sharing this because I’ve seen Marks heart, and I know how seriously he takes his responsibilities. I believe the people of our county deserve to understand the person behind the name on the ballot and to consider his experience and character for themselves.
At the end of the day, this decision is about the future of our county, and I hope we make it prayerfully and thoughtfully.
Mark Mease for Haywood County Sheriff
