“The rumors are true: I’m running again for Sheriff of Los Angeles.”
Former Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva announced Tuesday evening that he plans to run for his old position in 2026.
Standing in front of a banner that read “Alex Villanueva, Help is on the Way,” the former sheriff announced his campaign in a video he posted on X.
“Over the last several years, Los Angeles County has seen the consequences of failed leadership, not just in the Sheriff’s Department, but across our local government,” said Villanueva.
Villanueva will face Robert Luna, who defeated him in 2022, 59.8% to 40.2%.
The Villanueva for Sheriff committee registered with the Secretary of State’s office over the weekend.
“Promises made in 2022 have been replaced with a grim result – over a quarter of the workforce gone, an ongoing exodus of experienced personnel, and a tragedy of deputy suicides and in-custody deaths,” said Villanueva. “On our streets, lawlessness has become the new normal, with street takeovers, looting, and organized burglary crews terrorizing our communities. Families feel unsafe. Deputies feel unsupported.”
In 2018, Villanueva defeated the current chief of the Los Angeles Police Department, Jim Mcdonnell.
Standing behind a podium, Villanueva said it was time to bring proven leadership back to the department.
“On our streets, lawlessness has become the new normal, with street takeovers, looting, and organized burglary crews terrorizing our communities. Families feel unsafe. Deputies feel unsupported. It’s time to bring steady, proven leadership back to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department,” said Villanueva.
The former LA County Sheriff said his campaign was about building a safer, stronger future.
“I’ve walked this path before, and I’m returning with broader experience, more clarity, and a deeper commitment to the people who deserve better,” Villanueva said.
In April, Lt. Oscar Martinez of the Sheriff’s Palmdale Station announced plans to challenge Luna in 2026, saying he was running because the department needs a leader who will empower deputies to do their jobs.