Sheriff Nielsen eyes commissioner seat, Tony Manu runs for sheriff
BANNOCK COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) – In a press conference Thursday, longtime Bannock County Sheriff Lorin Nielsen announced that he hopes to stay in county government.
Nielsen, who served as sheriff for 24 years, plans to run against Ernie Moser for County Commissioner district one in the November election.
“I’m excited about the opportunity. I’ve been humbled by all the people who have called and requested (that I run). I feel that I can make a difference,” Nielsen said.
District one represents 13,795 registered voters and 575,801 acres, the largest of the three districts. It encompasses Inkom, Downey, Lava Hot Springs, McCammon, Arimo and the Swan Lake area.
The announcement came after Nielsen hinted he’d been thinking of staying in local government after he ended his career as sheriff. He plans to end his term early on June 30 to comply with retirement stipulations.
Lt. Tony Manu, head of detectives for Bannock County, officially announced his candidacy for sheriff at the press conference. He will take over as interim sheriff once Nielsen retires in June.
Manu thanked family members, coworkers, former coaches and other members of the community for their support in his endeavor.
“I can stand here with utmost sincerity, confidence and most of all humbleness to announce my intent to be a candidate for the Bannock County Sheriff,” Manu said.
He’s been with the sheriff’s office for 20 years, he said. Manu also graduated from Idaho State University and played on the football team.
Nielsen publicly endorsed Manu for sheriff, who he’s worked closely with for years. Manu is currently the only candidate to officially announce a bid for sheriff.
