Cody George
Robbinsville – The former chief deputy of the Graham County Sheriff's Office is tossing his hat in the ring of the crowded 2026 sheriff's race.
County native Cody George sent The Graham Star his official candidacy announcement Monday, bringing the total number of public decrees for the position to seven.
Filing for the 2026 election begins Dec. 1.
"After deep thought and consideration, I would like to share that I am officially announcing my candidacy for Graham County Sheriff in the upcoming 2026 election," George's announcement begins. "I am a Conservative and devoted Christian that believes in protecting the rights of law-abiding citizens, while standing firm on traditional values that strengthen families and communities."
A 2008 graduate of Robbinsville High School, George obtained an associate's degree from Tri-County Community College in 2010 and has spent the last 14 years working locally in law enforcement. He has served as a patrol deputy, patrol supervisor, K-9 handler, school resource officer, school resource officer supervisor and spent the last three years as chief deputy to sheriff Brad Hoxit.
George tendered his resignation as chief deputy Oct. 14.
"I had to do what I thought was best for my family," George told The Star.
George holds Advanced Law Enforcement certifications from North Carolina Sheriff's Standards and N.C. Criminal Justice Standards; is a graduate of the N.C. Sheriff's Association Chief Deputy Leadership Institute; and was voted Best Public Safety Official in both the 2023 and 2024 Readers' Choice awards, a special ballot voted on yearly by readers of The Graham Star.
His announcement also noted that he attends Blessed Hope Baptist Church and has served as an assistant junior varsity football coach; assistant varsity baseball coach; and volunteered with Graham County Little League.
"Our youth in our community has a special place in my heart," reads another portion of George's announcement. "I truly believe our youth is the future of our county and as sheriff, will work every day to ensure our young people have guidance, mentorship, and positive role models in law enforcement."
If elected, George said he will zero in on three key areas to ensure success in his role.
"I’ve truly devoted my life to helping others and helping my family," George's announcement says. "Family is the foundation of everything I believe in and everything I strive to protect. The values that guide me – faith, honesty, hard work and respect – were all learned at home and strengthened by the love and support of my family.
"As sheriff, I will continue to promote those same values – protecting families, supporting our youth and building a safer future for the next generation."
He finished his announcement by focusing on what he believes is a crucial component to running the office of sheriff.
"A true man of integrity does what is right, even when no one is watching," the announcement continues. "Integrity is the foundation of trust, and trust is the cornerstone of leadership. It means standing firm in your values and holding yourself to the same standards you expect from others.
"Throughout my life and career, I’ve learned that integrity isn’t proven in words, but in actions. It’s shown in how you treat people, how you handle adversity and how you lead when the decisions are tough. Being a man of integrity means staying honest, humble, and accountable – to God, to your family, and to the people you serve.
"As sheriff, I will continue to lead with unwavering integrity – making decisions based on what is right, not what is popular. The people of Graham County deserve a leader they can trust, and I will never compromise the principles that define who I am. My commitment is simple: to serve this county with the same dedication I give to my family and my faith. Together, we can build a safer and stronger future for all.
"Because this is our home – and it’s worth protecting."