Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The only Democratic candidate who would have been on the March primary election ballot in the race for Sangamon County Sheriff says he’s dropping out, and his own political party is to blame.

Former Illinois State Police Master Sergeant Marc Bell, in a letter addressed to Sangamon County residents, says his candidacy was “contingent on the full support of the Sangamon County Democratic Party to secure and experienced and knowledgeable campaign management team to put us in the best possible position to win this challenging race.”

Bell says the party has been unwilling to do that, calling the need for such a team “crucial resources.”

That means, unless the Democrats slate a candidate to run in November, the next sheriff could be incumbent Republican Paula Crouch, or fellow Republican David Timm — a former longtime sheriff’s deputy.

WTAX News and CapitolCityNow have contacted the Sangamon County Democratic Party for comment.  As of 3:30 p.m. Monday, Bell was listed as a candidate on the party’s website.

“Although I am ending this campaign, my commitment to this community remains unchanged,” Bell wrote. “I dedicated over 40 years of my life to serving and protecting the communities of Illinois.  I will continue to serve, contribute, and work toward a safer and stronger Sangamon County.”

The primary is March 17th, but early voting has begun.

Bell for Sheriff dropout letter
A letter from candidate David Bel about his dropping out of the March primary.