A lieutenant from the Palmdale sheriff’s station has announced his intention to run against Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna in the upcoming 2026 primary election. Lt. Oscar Martinez, a combat veteran and registered Republican, made his campaign official during an event in Santa Clarita.
Martinez, who has served in the sheriff’s department for 16 years, emphasized his commitment to modernizing the agency and providing strong leadership. He expressed concern over what he sees as a shift away from effective law enforcement, stating that "radical agendas" have infiltrated various levels of government, impacting public safety.
In his speech, Martinez explained that he is putting his career on the line not for personal gain but to support his fellow law enforcement officers and the communities they serve. He believes the race should focus on public safety rather than politics, noting that his Republican affiliation should not hinder his chances in a predominantly Democratic county.
Born in the Dominican Republic, Martinez moved to the U.S. as a child and later joined the Marines, serving in both Afghanistan and Iraq. After settling in Los Angeles in 2006, he joined the sheriff’s department two years later. His career has included roles in jails, as a chief’s executive aide, and as a spokesperson for the department.
Martinez decided to run after receiving encouragement from colleagues and community members, particularly following a high-profile case involving a deputy convicted for excessive force. He pointed out that many deputies feel unsupported and are fearful of losing their jobs over minor infractions.
Key issues for Martinez’s campaign include defending the Second Amendment, increasing resources for veterans in the department, and addressing the release of violent criminals. He also aims to advocate for changes in California’s immigration enforcement policies, seeking a better relationship between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
Martinez highlighted the need to modernize the sheriff’s department’s outdated systems, including its dispatch and transportation services. He also addressed ongoing concerns about alleged internal gangs within the department, acknowledging their existence but stressing that strong leadership could help mitigate their influence.
Challenging an incumbent sheriff is a daunting task, as incumbents historically have a high reelection rate. Only two sheriffs in Los Angeles County have been voted out in the past century. Sheriff Luna, who took office in 2022, has focused on reducing violent crime and restoring public trust in the department.
As the election approaches, Martinez’s campaign will face the challenge of gaining traction in a deeply blue area, but he remains optimistic about his message and the support he has garnered from the community and his peers.