Los Angeles, CA – July 22, 2025 – Alex Villanueva, the former 33rd Sheriff of Los Angeles County, has officially announced his candidacy for the 2026 Los Angeles County Sheriff’s election, aiming to reclaim the position he held from 2018 to 2022. The announcement, made yesterday in Wittier, marks a significant development in the lead-up to what is expected to be a closely watched race.
Villanueva, who made history as the first Democrat elected to the sheriff’s office in 138 years and the first Spanish-speaking sheriff in the county’s history, lost his re-election bid in 2022 to incumbent Sheriff Robert Luna by a margin of 59.8% to 40.2%. His tenure was notable for its polarizing moments, including public disputes with the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, allegations of deputy gang activity within the department, and criticism over transparency and accountability measures.
Since leaving office, Villanueva has maintained a strong presence in public discourse, frequently engaging with supporters through social media and public appearances. In May 2025, he announced his switch to the Republican Party, citing disillusionment with the Democratic Party’s direction and policies. This change has sparked speculation about how his campaign will resonate with voters in a predominantly Democratic county.
In his announcement, Villanueva emphasized his commitment to restoring public safety and addressing what he describes as mismanagement in the sheriff’s department under the current administration. While specific policy proposals were not detailed, he promised to outline his platform in the coming weeks, focusing on crime reduction and department reform.
The 2026 election is set to be a pivotal moment for Los Angeles County, as voters weigh the records of both candidates in addressing the region’s ongoing public safety challenges. Further details on Villanueva’s campaign are expected to be released soon.
About the Author
