Durham County Sheriff Clarence Birkhead Seeks Third Term

Incumbent touts criminal justice reforms and community engagement during his tenure

Feb. 6, 2026 at 11:31pm

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Durham County Sheriff Clarence Birkhead, a Democrat, is seeking a third term in office. Birkhead, 65, has served as Durham County Sheriff since 2018 and is touting his record of criminal justice reforms, expanded community engagement, and improvements to the county detention facility during his tenure.

Why it matters

As the top law enforcement official in Durham County, the sheriff plays a critical role in public safety, criminal justice policies, and community relations. Birkhead's reelection bid comes as Durham has seen a decline in some crime categories but an increase in juvenile offenses, underscoring the need for continued focus on youth diversion and community-based approaches.

The details

During his time as sheriff, Birkhead has implemented a number of reforms, including body-worn cameras, a ban on chokeholds, and a duty to intervene policy for deputies. He has also expanded de-escalation and implicit bias training, and worked to improve conditions and programming at the Durham County Detention Facility, including launching the state's first Medication Assisted Treatment program to combat opioid use disorder. Birkhead has also focused on strengthening community engagement, creating a community advisory board and increasing outreach efforts.

  • Birkhead was first elected as Durham County Sheriff in 2018.
  • Birkhead is seeking a third term in the 2026 election.

The players

Clarence Birkhead

The incumbent Durham County Sheriff, a Democrat who has served in the role since 2018 and is seeking a third term.

Durham County Board of Commissioners

The county governing body that oversees the Durham County Sheriff's Office budget and operations.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Durham County Board of Commissioners is currently conducting a feasibility study on expanding the city's HEART program, which provides mental health crisis response, into the county. Birkhead has expressed support for a co-responder model between the Sheriff's Office and the HEART program.

The takeaway

Birkhead's tenure as Durham County Sheriff has focused on criminal justice reforms, community engagement, and improving conditions and services at the county detention facility. As he seeks a third term, Birkhead will need to continue addressing challenges like juvenile crime and maintaining public trust in law enforcement.