Election 2024: Salazar seeking Democratic support for sheriff, three names contending on GOP ballot

SAN ANTONIO — Javier Salazar faces a familiar name in his reelection bid for Bexar County sheriff as Sharon Rodriguez vies for the Democratic nomination after a previous unsuccessful campaign in 2020. 

Unlike the 2020 primary, however, Rodriguez is Salazar’s only opponent on the Democratic ballot this year. Four years ago, there were four other Democrats vying for votes, which allowed Salazar to coast to the nomination without a runoff. 

Salazar is seeking a third straight term as Bexar County sheriff. 

On the Republican ballot, Nathan Buchanan, Victor A. Mendoza and Dennis Casillas are squaring off for the nomination. A candidate must accrue at least 50% of the vote on Tuesday in order to avoid the May 28 runoff. 

The sheriff heads up the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, and is the head law enforcement officer in the county. Salazar has served in the role since January 2017, having previously worked with the San Antonio Police Department for 23 years. He touts increased accountability and fortified public trust as priorities. 

Rodriguez has never held public office but says on her website that she would prioritize the creation of “an improved and more transparent vetting process for leadership positions within the agency,” adding the sheriff’s office also needs to improve its working conditions for deputies and staff. 

Buchanan previously mounted an unsuccessful campaign for Bexar County judge, the seat ultimately won by Peter Sakai. A small business owner and Texas peace officer, he says via his website that he would prioritize the rights of the individual over government. 

Mendoza says his main priorities would be modernizing policing tactics; eliminating budget inefficiencies; and improving the morale and working conditions of those working in the county jail. Casillas says that, if elected, he would focus on safeguarding schools, ensuring the jail is properly staffed and addressing the community’s mental health issues. 

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