Deputy Sheriffs’ Association Endorses Barker

Melanie Barker’s campaign announced Sept. 10 that the Madera County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association has endorsed her candidacy for District 5 supervisor.

In the campaign’s announcement, association President Miguel Hernandez said the endorsement followed a conversation with Barker about deputies’ concerns and public safety issues.

“She listened firsthand to our concerns and took the time to understand the issues facing our deputies and public safety,” Hernandez said. “We appreciate Melanie’s commitment to our community and are proud to support Melanie Barker for District 5 Supervisor.”

The endorsement is from the deputies’ association. The announcement does not identify it as an endorsement by the Madera County Sheriff’s Office or the sheriff.

According to the campaign, the association’s support follows an endorsement from CAL FIRE Firefighters Local 2881’s Madera-Mariposa-Merced Chapter.

Barker said the deputies’ support carries particular significance because of the county’s size and geography.

“Our deputies understand firsthand the challenges of keeping a large and geographically diverse county safe,” Barker said. “They are there when our families and communities need them most, and earning their confidence means a great deal to me.”

Her campaign identifies public safety as one of three central priorities, alongside roads and infrastructure, and cost of living and economic development. Its public safety platform includes law enforcement and fire protection, emergency preparedness, evacuation planning, staffing and equipment.

Barker’s campaign biography describes her as a U.S. Navy veteran, a 40-year mountain community resident and the founder of Summit Real Estate. She served as the 2024 president of the California Association of REALTORS®, according to the release.

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