Sheriff Chad Bianco of Riverside County, California, boasts over three decades in law enforcement and is bringing his unique crime-fighting strategies to the forefront of his 2026 gubernatorial campaign. Bianco, a Republican and supporter of former President Trump, announced his candidacy to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom, criticizing the state's Democratic leadership for what he perceives as a decline in public safety and quality of life.

Bianco attributes California's struggles with issues like rising crime, homelessness, and the fentanyl crisis to the policies of elected Democrats. He promises a different approach, emphasizing his willingness to challenge conventional methods. One example he cites is his early work combating online predators, collaborating with "Dateline" on what became a landmark "To Catch a Predator" operation. This initiative, which he spearheaded in 2006, resulted in numerous arrests across Southern California and beyond, and served as a model for similar operations nationwide and even internationally.

Bianco also points to successes within the Riverside County jail system, which he says has been recognized as a model for other institutions. He credits his leadership and the work of District Attorney Michael Hestrin for the county's relatively lower crime rates compared to other parts of California. He believes their focus on holding criminals accountable has created a deterrent effect, attracting businesses and residents to the area.

While acknowledging a nationwide law enforcement recruitment crisis, Bianco states that Riverside County is experiencing a retention problem, with officers leaving for other states due to California's perceived decline. He contrasts his approach with what he sees as the failed policies of Governor Newsom, specifically criticizing the state's handling of issues like drug trafficking and retail theft.

Newsom's office, however, defends the administration's record on crime, citing new public safety laws and statewide operations targeting organized crime, gun violence, and drug trafficking. They point to thousands of arrests and the recovery of stolen vehicles and illegal firearms as evidence of their success. Bianco maintains that the fentanyl crisis, fueled by the open border, is the most pressing issue facing Riverside County. He emphasizes his commitment to drug interdiction efforts while addressing other concerns like retail theft.