Blakeman Taps Madison County Sheriff as Running Mate

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman selects Todd Hood for lieutenant governor ticket.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman has chosen Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood as his running mate for lieutenant governor. Hood has served as sheriff since 2018 after previously working for the Syracuse Police Department.

Why it matters

This selection signals Blakeman's focus on law enforcement and public safety issues as part of his statewide campaign. Hood's background could help shore up Blakeman's credentials on these key issues.

The details

Blakeman, the Republican nominee for governor, has tapped Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood to join his ticket as the candidate for lieutenant governor. Hood has served as sheriff since 2018 after a career with the Syracuse Police Department in various roles.

  • Blakeman announced Hood as his running mate on February 10, 2026.

The players

Bruce Blakeman

The Republican nominee for governor of New York and current Nassau County Executive.

Todd Hood

The Madison County Sheriff who has been selected by Blakeman as his running mate for lieutenant governor.

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What they’re saying

“Todd Hood's experience in law enforcement will be a valuable asset as we work to keep New Yorkers safe and address the critical issues facing our state.”

— Bruce Blakeman, Republican Nominee for Governor (Newsday)

What’s next

Blakeman and Hood will officially launch their joint campaign for governor and lieutenant governor in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Blakeman's selection of a law enforcement veteran as his running mate signals a focus on public safety and criminal justice issues in his statewide campaign.