Nathan Budin Announces Run to Succeed Rice County Sheriff Jesse Thomas
Nathan Budin, a 25-year veteran of the Rice County Sheriff’s Office, has officially announced his candidacy for Rice County Sheriff in the 2026 election, aiming to fill the vacancy left by Sheriff Jesse Thomas, who will retire at the end of his term on December 31, 2026.
Thomas, who marked his 31st year with the Sheriff’s Office in April, publicly confirmed earlier this year that he plans to step down after an accomplished law enforcement career spanning three decades. “When I reflect on the past 30 years, I feel I am truly blessed and fortunate to have accomplished everything that I set out to do,” Thomas said. “But it’s time for me to spend more time with my family and let someone else take the lead.”
A Proven Law Enforcement Career Focused on Rice County
Budin is presenting himself as a seasoned candidate with deep local ties and extensive experience across multiple roles in public safety. He has lived in Rice County since 2004 and was raised on a farm in rural Northfield. His career in law enforcement started in 2000 with the Lonsdale Police Department before joining Rice County as a correctional officer later that year. After serving as a water patrol deputy, Budin was hired as a full-time deputy in August 2001.
Over the past 25 years, Budin has climbed through the ranks of the Sheriff’s Office, demonstrating a deep understanding of the community and public safety challenges ahead. His long tenure in multiple capacities within the department underscores his commitment to maintaining and improving law enforcement services across Rice County.
Filling a Leadership Void After Sheriff’s Retirement
Sheriff Jesse Thomas assumed office in 2021, initially appointed to replace former Sheriff Troy Dunn before winning election in November 2022. Now, with Thomas set to retire this December, the race to lead the Rice County Sheriff’s Office is already heating up, with Budin’s announcement positioning him as an immediate frontrunner.
Rice County residents and law enforcement observers are closely watching the transition, knowing that the next sheriff will face ongoing public safety demands amid evolving community needs. Budin’s decades-long experience and local roots could offer a steady hand during this pivotal leadership change.
What’s Next in the Rice County Sheriff Race
The 2026 Sheriff election campaign is officially underway. Budin’s declaration comes months ahead of the December retirement, giving him time to build momentum and support across the county. Officials will continue monitoring how other candidates enter the race and how Budin’s extensive background resonates with voters.
For Ohio and nationwide audiences, this leadership transition highlights the importance of experienced, community-centered candidates stepping forward in local law enforcement roles — a message resonating amid national conversations about policing and public trust.
“I am officially announcing my candidacy for Rice County Sheriff in the 2026 election,” Budin said. “I look forward to continuing the great work Sheriff Thomas has done.”
The Ohio Observer will continue covering developments in the Rice County Sheriff race with updates as candidates emerge and the campaign progresses toward election day.
