In a surprising turn of events, Eric Molitor, who was acquitted in 2023 for his alleged involvement in a plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2020, has announced his intention to run for sheriff in Michigan's Wexford County.
Molitor was one of five individuals acquitted in the conspiracy case, which saw nine others convicted.
Molitor has officially filed paperwork to participate in the 2024 Republican primary. One of his key campaign pledges is his refusal to enforce the state's new "red flag law," which empowers officials to confiscate firearms from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others.
Reflecting on his trial, Molitor criticized the proceedings, claiming that the kidnapping plot was a "set up by the feds." He specifically pointed a finger at a former FBI informant, known as "Steve," who was implicated in the scheme as part of the agency's efforts to thwart the potential kidnapping. The government, however, has labeled Steve a "double agent" who went rogue. Steve was subsequently dismissed from his position in the same month that six men were apprehended in connection with the kidnapping plot.
In a public address in February, Molitor underscored the importance of active participation in local government. "Id actually like to talk about what Im doing going forward because of this," he stated. "Getting involved locally it matters."
Molitor was accompanied by Bill Null, another individual acquitted in the kidnapping case, who expressed his aspiration to run for governor. "I honestly want to put my name on the ballot for governor," Null declared. "I might be reaching for the stars, but weve gotta do something."
In response to Molitor's announcement, Trent Taylor, the incumbent Wexford County sheriff, told The Detroit News that "anybody can run for sheriff" and there are "no set qualifications." The primary election is slated for August.
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