Hamilton County Democrats on Saturday morning chose County Commissioner Greg Beck as the party nominee for sheriff in the Aug. 7 election.
He picked up the support of a majority of Democratic delegates at a meeting at the Chattanooga Billiards Club East.
The only other candidate, former East Ridge detective Jim Winters, said he would support Commissioner Beck.
Commissioner Beck, who works as a court officer for City Judge Sherry Paty, said, "I am happy to be carrying the Democratic standard. I'm going to work hard to win the election."
He said, "This job is winnable."
Commissioner Beck stated, "The department needs to regain the trust of the people of Hamilton County, and we want to help restore the morale in the department."
The special election was made necessary after the startling arrest of Sheriff Billy Long by federal authorities.
Chief Allen Branum is currently running the department. Commissioner Beck earlier said he would keep Chief Branum in place if he wins.
The County Commission still has not decided whether it will name an interim sheriff. There are 10 contenders who were interviewed by the commission, including Chief Branum.
Both candidates gave presentations and answered questions from the crowd of about 100 at the Democratic meeting. Then the executive committee along with district and precinct captains and co-captains discussed the candidates in a closed meeting and voted.
John Bailes, party chairman, said, about 60 of the 120 eligible voters were present. He said about a dozen were in Nashville for a state party meeting that was postponed from last weekend.
He said, "Both candidates were well received. Both were very good candidates."
Mr. Bailes said Commissioner Beck "has the community connections and the public office experience and knowledge of law enforcement. He is a good nominee and he will make a good sheriff."
Republicans will hold two separate meetings later to choose their candidate.
Contenders are Rep. Vince Dean, retired Lt. Fred Fuson, Lt. Tim Carroll and Jim Hammond.