The details
The Harris County Sheriff's office is the largest sheriff's office in Texas and the third largest in the nation, according to the county website, with more than 5,000 employees.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
What residents should know
Key dates provided by the Harris County Clerk's office for the Nov. 5 election are:
- Oct. 7: last day to register to vote (Texas does not have online voter registration)
- Oct. 21: first day of early voting
- Oct. 25: ballot by mail application deadline
- Nov. 1: last day of early voting
- Nov. 5: Election Day
Ed Gonzalez * Incumbent
Experience:
Houston Police Officer: 18 years; Houston City Council Member: 3 terms; Harris County Sheriff: 2 terms
Occupation:
Harris County Sheriff
Candidate Website:
https://www.EdGonzalez.com
Contact Information:
(713) 364-6306
Why are you running for Harris County sheriff?
As sheriff, public safety is always my north star. We’re bringing accountability by requiring body cameras for all deputies and detention officers. We’re making our county stronger against natural disasters, leading rescue operations during emergencies. We’re doing more to keep women and families safe. I am the only pro-choice candidate.
Is transparency an important factor in this role? Please explain.
Yes. That’s why I’ve required body cameras for both deputies and jail detention officers (we are the first sheriff’s agency in Texas to do so) and upgraded and expanded surveillance cameras inside our jail complex—and why we release video of all officer-involved shootings within 45 days.
Understaffing at the Harris County jails has been an ongoing issue at the county level. If elected, what efforts would you implement in order to address this?
Our jail is now in full compliance with the Texas Commission on Jail Standards. I’ve advocated for higher pay for our detention personnel, and as a result, our workforce is more stable and attrition rates have improved. We are now consistently hiring more officers and staff than are leaving.
If elected, how would you work with your county constituents to address what you think are the biggest issues facing Harris County residents?
We operate a proactive Community Engagement Division that works closely with the public to build a stronger community prepared to face any challenges or circumstances by equipping the citizens with necessary knowledge and experience. We assist citizens in the reduction of crime through proactive crime prevention measures and victimization avoidance.
Mike Knox
Experience:
Retired HPD Officer; Small Business Owner; Former Houston City Council Member; Author/Expert
Occupation:
Consultant (retired)
Candidate Website:
https://www.mikeknox.org
Contact Information:
713-523-3330
Why are you running for Harris County sheriff?
Law enforcement has always been a passion. I see what is going on in Harris County and believe I can do a better job. The sheriff should be an advocate for the people of Harris County. I will be advocating for public safety to be priority #1 in Harris County.
Is transparency an important factor in this role Please explain.
Yes. Transparency is key to developing trust between law enforcement and the public they serve. I will work closely with the faith-based communities and citizen action groups to develop a responsive, transparent communication model.
Understaffing at the Harris County jails has been an ongoing issue at the county level. If elected, what efforts would you implement in order to address this?
Staffing retention involves more than hourly wage. Employees must feel relatively safe, appreciated, and see opportunities for advancement. None of which are present in the Jail. I will work to make the pay competitive, improve the standards of continuing education and will promote from within the department.
If elected, how would you work with your county constituents to address what you think are the biggest issues facing Harris County residents?
My top priority is to make the Harris County safe for citizens, inmates and employees. I will be working with federal, state and surrounding local jurisdictions to maximize the regional response to crime. We will gain the support of Commissioners Court and make public safety priority #1 in Harris County.
