Hardesty announces re-election campaign

FALLS CITY -  Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty announced his re-election campaign Wednesday with a Facebook post saying keeping families safe is his highest priority.

Hardesty, who was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Don Pounds in 2019, was elected in 2022 with 2,552 votes.

His post Wednesday says he started the job with a promise to make response times shorter and be accountable for how the job is done.

Hardesty said the sheriff’s office should hold itself to the highest standards and said that starts with the him.

 Here is Sheriff Hardesty's post

Friends and neighbors of Richardson County,

I want to speak to you directly about something that means a great deal to me and my family. I am running for reelection as your Richardson County Sheriff.

When the County Board appointed me in August 2019, I made a few simple promises. I said we would work to get to you faster when you call for help. I said we would earn your trust, because this office works for you. And I said we would build real partnerships with the people of this county, not just serve behind a badge, but serve alongside our communities.

These past six years, that has guided every decision I’ve made. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made together. We’ve worked hard to improve service, stay visible, and strengthen relationships across the county. Whether it’s answering a late-night call, working with families, or showing up at community events, our goal has been the same: be there when you need us and be accountable for how we do the job.

One of the toughest challenges we’ve faced is the drug problem affecting our towns and rural areas. We didn’t ignore it, and we didn’t push it aside. We went after it head on. That work isn’t always easy or visible, but it matters. I truly believe the steps we’ve taken are helping make Richardson County safer for our kids, our neighborhoods, and the future of this community.

When you vote for me, you know what you’re getting. You’ve seen how I lead. You’ve seen how this office operates. Experience matters in this job, but so does accountability. I believe the Sheriff’s Office should hold itself to the highest standards, and that starts with me. If something isn’t right, it’s my responsibility to address it. You deserve nothing less.

We’re also focused on building a strong team. Hiring and keeping good people is critical, because the level of service you receive depends on the people wearing the uniform. You deserve a Sheriff’s Office you trust and can be proud of. I will continue to be transparent, and if you ever have a concern, you can come talk to me. My door is open.

While I wasn’t born here, this county has been home to my family and me since 2019. We’ve built our lives here. This community means everything to us, and serving as your Sheriff has been one of the greatest honors of my life.

I’m not going to make big promises that sound good but can’t be guaranteed. What I can promise is this: I will keep showing up every day and giving this job everything I have. Keeping you and your families safe will always be my top priority.

On May 12, 2026, I humbly ask for your vote. If you believe in steady leadership, accountability, and a Sheriff’s Office that works for the people, I’d be honored to continue serving you. Please talk with your friends and neighbors, and encourage them to take part in the election too.

Together, we can keep Richardson County safe, strong, and a place we’re all proud to call home.

Thank you for your trust and support,

Rick Hardesty