Jefferson County residents will decide who leads their Sheriff's Office in the November 2026 general election, after the race between incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock and challenger Tyler Anderson bypassed the May primary entirely — a result of Oregon election law, which sends two-candidate races directly to the general.
The Incumbent: Jason Pollock
Jason Pollock has served as Jefferson County Sheriff and has been the face of the county's law enforcement since taking office. As the incumbent, he carries the institutional weight of the office and name recognition across the county's diverse communities — from Madras to Crooked River Ranch to the rural reaches near Ashwood and Shaniko.
Pollock has emphasized community engagement during his tenure, with the Sheriff's Office expanding outreach efforts including "Coffee with a Cop" events that extended to Crooked River Ranch earlier this year.
The Challenger: Tyler Anderson
Tyler Anderson spent 17 years in law enforcement, including six years working in the Jefferson County jail and another six as a member of the Central Oregon SWAT team. He is a former JCSO deputy who has made the case that his operational experience — including special operations training — makes him the better choice for the county's top law enforcement post.
Anderson's candidacy has not been without controversy. He has appeared on what is commonly known as the Brady List — a database of officers whose credibility or conduct may be subject to disclosure in criminal proceedings. His law enforcement certification was also reported to be under review by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) as of May 21. Anderson has filed a candidate statement with the county defending his qualifications and record.
What's at Stake
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office oversees law enforcement across a large and geographically varied county that includes the city of Madras, unincorporated rural areas, and shares borders with the Warm Springs Reservation, where tribal police operate independently. The sheriff manages the county jail, patrol operations, and coordinates with state and federal partners during emergencies like wildfire evacuations.
With fire season ramping up and public safety top of mind across the region, both candidates can be expected to face pointed questions about emergency preparedness, staffing, and community relations in the months ahead.
The general election is November 3, 2026. Ballots will be mailed in mid-October.
Candidate statements for both Pollock and Anderson are available for review at the Jefferson County Clerk's office and at jeffersoncountyor.gov.