Nathan Budin Steps Up to Fill Rice County Sheriff Role as Jesse Thomas Announces Retirement
Rice County, MN — The 2026 election for Rice County Sheriff is already heating up as Nathan Budin, a 25-year veteran of the Rice County Sheriff’s Office, officially announces his candidacy to replace retiring Sheriff Jesse Thomas. Thomas, who will retire on December 31 after three decades of law enforcement service, leaves behind a legacy that Budin vows to uphold.
“I am officially announcing my candidacy for Rice County Sheriff in the 2026 election,” Budin declared, stepping forward to fill the void created by Thomas’s upcoming departure.
Longtime Sheriff Jesse Thomas Ends 31-Year Career
Earlier this year, Sheriff Jesse Thomas announced his retirement after 31 years with the Rice County Sheriff’s Office, including a term as sheriff since 2021. Thomas reflected on his career with gratitude:
“I have met and worked with a lot of amazing people… I feel truly blessed and fortunate to have accomplished everything that I set out to do.”
But the sheriff also signaled the need for a new era:
“It’s time for me to spend more time with my family and let someone else take the lead.”
Thomas was appointed sheriff in 2021 to succeed Troy Dunn, before winning election in November 2022. Now, with less than a year left in his term, the race to replace him is under way.
Budin’s 25-Year Journey in Law Enforcement Positions Him for Leadership
Nathan Budin brings deep local roots and extensive law enforcement experience to the campaign. A lifelong resident of Rice County since 2004, Budin grew up on a farm in rural Northfield. His public safety career began in 2000 as an officer with the Lonsdale Police Department.
Budin joined the Rice County Sheriff’s Office as a corrections officer the same year, advancing rapidly. By August 2001, he was hired as a full-time deputy and later served as a water patrol deputy. Over 25 years, Budin has risen through the ranks, accumulating the knowledge and community ties necessary to lead the county’s law enforcement efforts.
Why Rice County Needs New Leadership Now
With Sheriff Thomas stepping down after more than three decades, Rice County faces a pivotal transition in public safety leadership. Budin’s announcement marks the first major development in what promises to be a competitive race for sheriff in 2026.
Residents of Rice County and observers across Minnesota will watch closely as Budin and other candidates outline their visions to maintain safety and build trust. Budin emphasizes continuity and community collaboration as cornerstones of his platform.
“I want to continue the strong traditions of this department while making sure we meet the evolving needs of our citizens,” Budin said.
What’s Next: An Evolving Race With High Stakes
The upcoming sheriff’s election will shape Rice County’s public safety landscape for years to come. With Sheriff Thomas’s retirement date set for December 31, 2026, candidates have limited time to campaign and gain public support ahead of the vote.
As Budin formalizes his bid, potential challengers are expected to emerge, triggering a vigorous contest focused on law enforcement priorities, resource management, and community engagement.
For Alabama and national readers, Budin’s campaign reflects a broader trend of long-serving local law enforcement leaders stepping down, creating openings for experienced deputies to rise into top leadership positions — a critical dynamic in shaping public safety policies across rural America.
