Mike Bouchard

He's Oakland County's popular Sheriff and a consistent vote getter, racking up impressive victories in his campaigns. Bouchard's past endorsements include Right to Life of Michigan PAC, the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the National Rifle Association. Bouchard was a leader in the state Senate and he served in the leadership of local government. He's owned his own business. He's worn a badge for 18 years. He's a husband and father of three. In 1999, Michael J. Bouchard became Sheriff of one of the largest counties in the nation: Oakland County, Michigan. As Sheriff, Bouchard oversees 1,200 employees and manages an annual budget in excess of $119 million. Sheriff Bouchard brings the combined experience of 18 years of law enforcement and 18 years as an elected official to the position. Appointed in early 1999 to fill a sudden vacancy, Sheriff Bouchard was returned to office in 2000 with the largest number of votes for any contested candidate in Oakland County. Most recently in 2004 he was re-elected to a four-year term expiring in 2009. Since taking office, Bouchard has been driven by two guiding principles: ensuring the safety of the citizens of Oakland County while being a good steward of the public trust with regard to spending decisions. His fiscally conservative approach combined with his tough policies when dealing with law breakers have led to many commendations for his service, but more importantly have earned him the trust of the citizens of Oakland County, Michigan. Bouchard has also been recognized on the national level for his leadership: he is a member of the Joint Terrorism Task Force as well as the National Sheriff's Association Hurricane Katrina After Action Analysis Team. Prior to becoming Oakland County Sheriff, Bouchard served as a State Senator from 1991 - 1999. During his time in the State Senate, Mike was elected by his colleagues to serve as Assistant President Pro-Tempore (1991-1994), Assistant Senate Majority Leader (1994-1998), and Majority Floor Leader (1998-1999). Bouchard also served in the Michigan House of Representatives (1990) and at the local level as President of the Beverly Hills, Michigan Village Council.