Chad Bianco

Chad Bianco, Riverside County Sheriff and 2026 gubernatorial candidate, has been involved in several public controversies and legal actions: Election Investigation: In 2026, Bianco initiated an investigation and seized approximately 650,000 ballots from the 2025 election based on unverified allegations from an activist group. The California Supreme Court eventually halted the investigation. Warrants were signed by Judge Jay Kiel, whom Bianco had endorsed. Campaign Uniform Suit: In 2025, Democratic candidate Stephen J. Cloobeck sued Bianco (Cloobeck v. Bianco, Riverside Superior Court, cvri 2505068) for allegedly violating California Government Code 3206, which prohibits public employees from wearing uniforms during political activities. Campaign Finance: Reports indicate Bianco’s campaign received $156,800 in donations from two companies, M&D Development and Downs Energy, which share the same leadership. Under Fair Political Practices Commission rules, these donations may require aggregation, potentially exceeding state campaign contribution limits. Jail Conditions and Misconduct: Following a record 18 inmate deaths in 2022, his department faced civil lawsuits and an ongoing California Department of Justice investigation regarding allegations of unconstitutional policing, excessive force, and conditions of confinement. Oath Keepers Membership: A 2021 data breach revealed Bianco was a former member of the Oath Keepers; he stated he paid for a one-year membership in 2014 and did not renew it. Other Controversies: Bianco faced a $100 million federal lawsuit regarding the 2025 arrest of Vem Miller near a Trump rally; the suit was dismissed, and Miller was ordered to complete community service and a gun-safety course. Additionally, in 2025, a student was arrested for making death threats against him.