DeKalb Sheriff Tom Brown To Challenge Hank Johnson For Congressional Seat

After 13 years as DeKalb County sheriff, Tom Brown announced Wednesday he’s running for Congress.

Brown will challenge Hank Johnson, who has held the District 4 seat since 2007.

At a campaign kickoff in Decatur, the four-time-elected sheriff acknowledged Johnson remains a popular Democrat across the district.

“He is well-liked. So am I. So now it comes down to who’s the best. And I believe I’m the best.”

The district includes parts of DeKalb, Gwinnett, Rockdale, and Newton Counties.

Brown said he’d be a stronger, more serious advocate for the district than Johnson, who Brown claims has lost touch with constituents.

“They don’t see him in the district, they don’t hear from him, that he is not being there for them so they can talk to him eyeball to eyeball.”

Johnson spokesman Andy Phelan said that isn’t the case at all.

“Around congressional circles we’re known for our strong constituent services so I’m a little surprised to hear that. That doesn’t ring true.”

The Democratic primary is set for May. No Republicans so far have entered the race.