Voters appear to be splitting along party lines in their support of the sheriff candidates. Democratic-leaning precincts are backing Undersheriff Kelly Martinez, and Republican-leaning precincts are trending toward retired chief criminal prosecutor John Hemmerling.
Most of the city of San Diego is bending toward Martinez, as are much of North and South County. Hemmerling is leading in farther inland communities from Jamul to Lakeside, Ramona and Valley Center. He’s also pulling support from in and around Rancho Santa Fe.
Nine incorporated cities contract with the Sheriff’s Department to provide policing and patrol. Voters in seven of those cities — Del Mar, Encinitas, Imperial Beach, Lemon Grove, San Marcos, Solana Beach and Vista — appear to be opting for Martinez. Poway and Santee voters are split in their support for the two.