A second candidate has emerged in the race for Lancaster County Sheriff in 2026. 25-year law enforcement veteran Jay Pitts has announced he will challenge Lancaster County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Ben Houchin.
Both men are running to succeed Terry Wagner, who has announced he will retire next year. Pitts joined the Lincoln Police Department in 1973 after earning two national
championships while playing football at the University of Nebraska.
“As a 25-year law enforcement veteran who has worked in many roles and agencies throughout Lancaster County, I will bring fresh ideas that reinvigorate the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office,” Pitts says.
I will modernize training while increasing community involvement and transparency. I will serve as your Sheriff with honesty and integrity.” Pitts’ platform includes fairly enforcing current laws while providing deputies the tools and culture to perform to the best of their abilities. “As sheriff, I will treat everyone fairly based on merit so that our office can best serve the residents of Lancaster County.”
Pitts plans to meet with local community leaders throughout his campaign to hear their concerns and ideas.