Madison County Sheriff Running for NY Lieutenant Governor

Todd Hood aims to bring law enforcement experience to statewide race with GOP gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood has been tapped as the running mate for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman. Hood, a longtime law enforcement officer, believes his background in policing will help him succeed in a statewide political race for lieutenant governor. Blakeman says Hood's upstate roots and focus on economic growth will complement his own agenda.

Why it matters

The selection of a county sheriff as the GOP's lieutenant governor candidate reflects the party's emphasis on law-and-order issues and an effort to appeal to voters outside of New York City. Hood's candidacy also highlights the challenges of retaining talent and economic growth in upstate New York.

The details

Hood was elected Madison County sheriff in 2018 after a 22-year career with the Syracuse Police Department and time as an investigator in the Onondaga District Attorney's office. He believes his law enforcement experience has prepared him for the political arena, saying 'If they trust you, they confide in you, they're going to work with you and for you, and you're going to be successful.' Blakeman tapped Hood to help drive an agenda focused on boosting economic prosperity across the state, in contrast with his Democratic opponent's proposals for free public services.

  • Hood was elected Madison County sheriff in 2018.
  • Blakeman selected Hood as his running mate on Monday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Todd Hood

The Madison County Sheriff who is running for New York lieutenant governor on the Republican ticket with gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman.

Bruce Blakeman

The Republican candidate for New York governor who selected Todd Hood as his running mate for lieutenant governor.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“In law enforcement, it is kind of a lot like politics. If you don't have the support of the people, than you have nothing.”

— Todd Hood, Madison County Sheriff (WABC radio)

“I've got an economic plan to make people prosperous by putting more money in their pocket. She's offering free bus rides and free child care. Free child care for what? For people who don't have jobs. I mean, it's just ridiculous.”

— Bruce Blakeman, Republican Gubernatorial Candidate (WABC radio)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.