Long Beach Police Chief Jim McDonnell may have a long list of supporters in his bid to become the next LA County Sheriff, but that's not to say he's guaranteed to win the race.

Political analysts are saying he's by no means a shoe-in, and the winner in the upcoming election will need to have name recognition, community outreach and a deep-pocketed campaign.

This is the first time the seat has come open in a very long time, they said, and that's bound to make for an interesting race.

In fact, the last time the field was this open was in 1998. Back then, now-Sheriff Lee Baca managed to outperform his incumbent in the polls.   Baca announced several days ago that he would not run for re-election.  Many think this is due to widespread allegations of corruption, inmate-abuse and deputy misconduct.

Since that time a handful of others have tossed their hat into the ring.  This includes a retired LASD commander, a former undersheriff,  an assistant sheriff and an LAPD detective supervisor.

As in any big race, money will be a very big factor.  Campaign fundraising will need to start immediately.

Money is used to help reach out to voters, according to political insiders, noting that commercials and direct mail pieces aren't cheap.  The candidate who is best able to get their message out to the voters  may be most likely to win the race.

McDonnell's supporters say he has a proven track record and they that he's so removed from current LASD scandals.    His opponents point out he's hired Baca's political advisers and feel the last thing LA needs is another law enforcement politician in office.

The primary election will take place on June 3.  If none of the candidates gets more than 50 percent of the vote, the top two contenders will reportedly participate in a November runoff.