Return to the main page for 2026 Elections at www.mysaline.com/2026-elections-campaign-announcements.
Sheriff Rodney Wright, a dedicated public servant and lifelong resident of Saline County, is excited to announce his candidacy for State Senator representing District 16. With nearly a decade of experience as Sheriff and a robust background in law enforcement, Wright is committed to serving the community at a higher level and addressing the needs of his constituents.
Read more below.
Since taking office as Sheriff in January 2015, Wright has led efforts to enhance public safety, strengthen community trust, and implement fiscally responsible solutions to address budget challenges within the department. His leadership has earned him respect and recognition, including appointments to the Arkansas State Crime Lab board by Governor Sarah Sanders in 2023 and the Arkansas 911 board by former Governor Asa Hutchinson in 2019.
Additionally, he has served as president of the Arkansas Sheriff’s Executive Board from 2022 to 2023. Wright’s extensive law enforcement career began in 1994 with the City of Benton, where he rose through the ranks to command the Criminal Investigation Division as a Lieutenant. He also served as Tactical Team Commander of the Benton SWAT team for eight years, demonstrating his commitment to public safety and crisis management.
In his new role as a State Senator, Wright aims to focus on key issues such as public safety, education, and community welfare. “I believe that my experience and commitment to public service uniquely position me to represent the interests of District 16,” Wright stated. “I am eager to bring my vision for a safer, more prosperous community to the State Senate.”
Wright is particularly passionate about initiatives that protect children, having actively participated as a board member of CASA and as an advocate for John 3:16 Ministries in Arkansas. Sheriff Wright is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Arkansas Law Enforcement Academy, holding an Associate Degree in Electronics from Southern Technical College. He resides in Benton with his son and daughter, and remains dedicated to the community he serves.
Return to the main page for 2026 Elections at www.mysaline.com/2026-elections-campaign-announcements.