Rory McKinney has confirmed plans to run for Midland County Sheriff. The former Midland County Chief Deputy made the announcement on his Facebook page.
“My decision comes based on the love and appreciation that I have for my community. Over the last several years, law enforcement has noticed a rise in drugs, human trafficking and alcohol-related crimes,” McKinney posted on Facebook Saturday.
The former deputy served his previous tenure under the late Gary Painter, a NewsWest9 article said.
The candidate will formally announce his candidacy at the Homewood Suites conference center on August 25 at 6:30 p.m.
In 2020, McKinney lost a four-person race won by Sheriff David Criner for the Republican nomination, with Criner receiving 51.6% of the vote and McKinney 33.9%.
McKinney will run again against Criner, who confirmed he will run for re-election, the Midland Reporter-Telegram said. Criner was sworn in as Midland County’s Sheriff on April 1, 2020, after serving as constable for Precinct 1 for seven years. He also worked for the Texas Department of Public Safety for 26 years and kicked off his law enforcement career as a deputy sheriff in Midland County.
The Republican primary is scheduled for March 5, 2024, followed by the general election on Nov. 5, 2024.
“As the Permian Basin grows, it is imperative that we address these issues for our current and future generations,” McKinney posted. “The time has come for our community to come together as one and choose the right path for Midland County.”