Christian County Chief Deputy Sheriff Jim Baker is running to be the county’s top cop.  The lifelong native of Christian County announced his candidacy for the role as a Republican.  Some of Baker’s top priorities include increasing funding for deputy training and equipment, increasing drug enforcement, new measures to protect children from predators, and boosting community engagement. 

Chief Deputy Sheriff Baker began working in law enforcement in 1998.  He served as Police Chief for the Village of Kincaid while also working part-time as a Christian County Sheriff’s Deputy.  He joined the Sheriff’s Office full-time in 2003, working his way up the ranks since then. 

In a statement, Baker says his serving the county in various roles over 27 years has helped him understand the challenges the community faces.  He says he promises to focus on trust, safety, and progress for the people of Christian County. 

The primary election will take place on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.  The winners will meet in the general election on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.  The latter day is also the midterm elections in the U.S. Congress as well as the election for governor of Illinois. 

More information on Jim Baker’s campaign can be found at his website, bakerforsheriff.com.