Hilton Head Island, S.C. — Beaufort County voters chose Doug Seifert as their next sheriff on Nov. 3, clearing the way for the first leadership change at the agency in nearly 30 years when he takes over in January.
Countywide results showed Seifert with 50,886 ballots, about 60 percent of the 85,496 votes cast. Alphonso Small Jr. finished behind him. Seifert has spent about two decades at the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and is scheduled to take the oath in January 2027, succeeding P.J. Tanner.
Speaking Thursday, Seifert said planning is underway for a St. Helena Island substation and that he is still making community stops around the county. His campaign agenda also included expanding the drug unit and standing up a traffic-focused team.
Small congratulated the winner and urged fairness, community listening and a reminder that the sheriff’s office serves the public. Tanner voiced support for Seifert and said the new sheriff will do fine by being himself.
Hilton Head Island is part of Beaufort County and relies on the sheriff’s office for countywide enforcement. Seifert said election night does not end the push and that he wants campaign promises reflected in daily operations.
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