Andy Pernsteiner
(Prefers Democratic Party) statement likely AII was raised in a small rural farming community in North Dakota, where I learned the values of hard work, integrity, and service to others. After graduating from high school, I joined the Marine Corps and was introduced to the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula. Following my military service, I chose to make Jefferson County my home. For the past 28 years, I have proudly served this community as a Deputy Sheriff while raising my family here. I live in Chimacum with my wife, Melissa, our two pugs, Ozzy and Bubba, and enjoy spending time with our children and grandchildren. I believe the Sheriff’s Office should always remain focused on the needs of the community and the people we are sworn to serve. Public safety is about more than responding to emergencies; it is about building trust, strengthening partnerships, and addressing the challenges that impact families every day. In Jefferson County, that includes working collaboratively with local organizations, schools, healthcare providers, and community leaders to address issues such as substance abuse, homelessness, and mental health needs with compassion, accountability, and practical solutions.