Nathan Budin Officially Enters Race for Rice County Sheriff
Nathan Budin, a 25-year Rice County law enforcement veteran, has announced his candidacy to replace Sheriff Jesse Thomas, who is retiring at the end of his term on December 31, 2026. Budin’s entry into the 2026 sheriff’s race marks a pivotal moment in Rice County leadership as the community prepares for a new sheriff after Thomas’s nearly three decades of service.
Budin declared, “I am officially announcing my candidacy for Rice County Sheriff in the 2026 election,” confirming his ambition to fill the senior law enforcement role. His campaign launch follows Sheriff Thomas’s earlier retirement announcement, bringing immediate urgency to the race as the county seeks continuity in public safety.
Budding Leadership Ready to Continue Legacy
Jesse Thomas expressed pride reflecting on his career that began 31 years ago with the Rice County Sheriff’s Office. “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. But it’s time for me to spend more time with my family and let someone else take the lead,” Thomas said, underlining his decision to step down after nearly a decade as sheriff.
Thomas was appointed sheriff in 2021 to succeed former Sheriff Troy Dunn and solidified his position with an election win in November 2022. His impending departure opens a competitive space in one of Minnesota’s key law enforcement offices, spotlighting Budin as a leading contender.
Veteran Candidate with Deep Rice County Roots
Budin’s career began in 2000 with the Lonsdale Police Department before joining Rice County as a corrections officer that December. By August 2001, he had become a full-time deputy, steadily advancing through ranks over his 25-year tenure. Budin grew up on a farm in rural Northfield and has called Rice County home since 2004, highlighting his deep community ties.
“Over the last two and a half decades, I have risen through the ranks learning every facet of the job,” Budin said, positioning himself as the candidate with the experience and local understanding required to lead the department forward.
Why This Matters Right Now
Rice County residents rely heavily on consistent, effective public safety leadership, making this transition critical. Budin’s announcement prompts immediate focus on the upcoming primary campaigning season, as voters begin assessing which candidate is best suited to uphold and expand public safety initiatives.
With Thomas’s retirement set for the end of the year, the timeline accelerates. The community can expect increased political activity in the weeks ahead, as candidates present their visions for the sheriff’s office that guards the safety of thousands.
What to Watch Next
The 2026 Rice County sheriff election race is officially underway. Budin’s declaration could influence other potential candidates to enter or reconsider their campaigns, escalating competition. Public forums, interviews, and debates are likely to begin soon, providing voters with critical insights before the election.
Stakeholders from neighboring states, including Delaware, and interested parties across the U.S. will watch this race closely for trends in law enforcement leadership transitions in rural and semi-rural counties.
For now, Nathan Budin has positioned himself as the early front-runner aiming to build on Sheriff Jesse Thomas’s legacy, while promising dedication and extensive experience to keep Rice County safe through the next decade.
