Who is running for Buncombe County Sheriff in 2026?

Quentin Miller (Democrat) and Gary Parris (Republican).

Who should I vote for in the Buncombe County Sheriff race?

SpectrumVote doesn't endorse anyone or tell you how to vote. Compare each candidate's record, funding, outside spending and endorsements on this page, then decide based on the issues that matter most to you. Enter your address at spectrumvote.com to see this race next to everything else on your ballot.

When is the election?

The general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Early voting and mail-ballot deadlines vary by state; check your state or county election office.

Buncombe County Sheriff

2 candidates · General election, November 3, 2026

What this office does

The county's chief law-enforcement officer. Runs the sheriff's office and usually the county jail, patrols areas outside city police departments, and serves court papers.

Immigration enforcement (ICE 287(g))

ICE's list of 287(g) participating agencies shows no agreement for Buncombe County's sheriff's office.

Under 287(g), ICE trains and authorizes local officers to carry out some federal immigration duties. From ICE's list of participating agencies, as of October 28, 2026. Whether to keep, change or end an agreement is up to the sheriff.

Candidates

Quentin Miller

Democrat · $9,484 raised (state filings)

Not enough public record yet to place on the left–right scale.

Gary Parris

Republican · $33K raised (state filings)

Not enough public record yet to place on the left–right scale.

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Also on Buncombe County ballots

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Quick answers

Who is running for Buncombe County Sheriff in 2026?: Quentin Miller (Democrat) and Gary Parris (Republican).
What does this office do?: The county's chief law-enforcement officer. Runs the sheriff's office and usually the county jail, patrols areas outside city police departments, and serves court papers.
Who should I vote for in the Buncombe County Sheriff race?: SpectrumVote doesn't endorse anyone or tell you how to vote. Compare each candidate's record, funding, outside spending and endorsements on this page, then decide based on the issues that matter most to you. Enter your address at spectrumvote.com to see this race next to everything else on your ballot.
When is the election?: The general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Early voting and mail-ballot deadlines vary by state; check your state or county election office.

Not sure how to decide? Read our nonpartisan guide to the Buncombe County ballot.

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