Former Kane County coroner Rob Russell has announced his bid for the Republican nomination for Kane County Sheriff in the 2026 primary, according to a news release. Russell served three terms as coroner from 2012 to 2024 and later lost his bid for a fourth term to Democrat Monica Silva.
Russell says his twelve years as coroner helped boost his name recognition across the county and notes he was encouraged by Democrats, Republicans, and independents to pursue Sheriff Ron Hain’s vacancy. During his time as coroner, he secured more than $2 million in federal funds to establish a regional forensic lab in Kane County and he advocated for a new coroner’s office and a state-of-the-art morgue facility, outcomes he says have provided a more dignified space for families during investigations.
Expanding the forensic lab remains a central pillar of his plan for the sheriff’s office. Russell began his law enforcement career in 1993 as a deputy for the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office, with experience spanning patrol, court security, community-oriented policing, and corrections. He is currently working as a police officer in Hampshire, where he lives with his wife, Susan.
This marks Russell’s second bid for the GOP nomination for sheriff. In 2010, he ran for the nomination but lost to Donald Kramer, who was ultimately defeated in the general election by incumbent Pat Perez.
Other Republicans in the race include Elburn Village Trustee Lou Santoyo, who also announced his bid for the nomination. On the Democratic side, Kane Undersheriff Amy Johnson, Sheriff’s Deputy Sgt. Andrew Schwab, and retired Kane County Lt. Salvador Rodriguez have declared their intent to seek the Democratic nomination.
What to watch: Russell’s emphasis on forensic capacity expansion could shape the sheriff’s race, particularly given his background as coroner and his track record in securing federal funding for county forensic infrastructure. The contest is shaping up as a high-profile, two-party battle for control of Kane County’s public safety leadership, with several veterans from law enforcement entering the fray.
Summary: Rob Russell, a former three-term Kane County coroner, has launched a 2026 campaign for the Republican nomination for sheriff, leveraging his experience in forensic funding and facility planning to position himself as a candidate focused on public safety and operational modernization. The field includes multiple contenders from both parties, signaling a competitive race ahead.
Potential added value: If you’re reporting on this race, consider tracking how each candidate plans to handle jail operations, budget priorities, and crime prevention strategies, as well as how they intend to expand or coordinate forensic capabilities with regional partners.