Jim Root announced he is running for Macon County Sheriff in the November, 2018 election, during a news conference at the Decatur Civic Center Friday.
Root was born and raised in Decatur. He entered the United States Marine Corps after he graduated from Eisenhower High School in 1986. After graduating Field Artillery School he was stationed in Okinawa Japan assigned to Fox Battery 2nd Battalion 12 Marines, 3rd Marine Division.
He completed the Marine Corps rifle instructor course and became an instructor at the range. He was awarded a meritorious mast, Special Achievement award, and a good conduct medal prior to being honorably discharged.