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Sheriff · Somerset County · 2026 Primary
The Sheriff is an elected official responsible for maintaining courthouse security, serving legal documents such as warrants and evictions, and transporting individuals in custody. In many Maryland counties, the Sheriff’s Office also serves as the primary law enforcement agency, conducting patrols and investigating crimes. This office is a key part of the local justice system, ensuring that court orders are enforced and the public is protected.
View all candidates in this raceRonald Howard is a Westover resident and current Somerset County Sheriff, seeking re-election in 2026. A Somerset County native, Howard served with the Maryland State Police for 25 and a half years before retiring and joining the Somerset County Sheriff's Office as a deputy in 2008. He was appointed Chief Deputy in 2010 and was first elected Sheriff on December 2, 2014, becoming the first new Somerset County sheriff in 28 years. He was re-elected in 2018 and again in 2022 as a Republican. He serves on the Somerset County Drug and Alcohol Abuse Council, the Local Government Justice Reinvestment Commission, and the Somerset County Local Management Board. He has been a vocal advocate for school resource officers in Somerset County public schools and for competitive deputy salaries, recently proposing a $20,000 pay increase per deputy to better compete with neighboring counties for law enforcement talent.
I want to thank all of my supporters, my deputies, my family and friends for everything you've done over the last six months.
I have worked in law enforcement for over 39 years. I have the necessary experience
Law Enforcement Experience
Howard emphasizes his long tenure in law enforcement as qualification for the sheriff position
“I have worked in law enforcement for over 39 years. I have the necessary experience”
External news coverage from Delmarva Now reports that Howard is one of several Republican candidates running for Somerset County Sheriff in the 2026 Maryland primary election. A July 2022 questionnaire response indicates he has extensive law enforcement background spanning over three decades.
“I have worked in law enforcement for over 39 years. I have the necessary experience”
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