Lake County Sheriff Candidate Roman Buchberger Earns Support From Antioch Community Leaders

By Michael "Mickey" Scornavacco, Antioch, Illinois

As the 2026 race for Lake County Sheriff begins to draw attention across the county, Republican candidate Roman Buchberger is gaining momentum among voters looking for experienced, community-focused leadership in law enforcement.

Buchberger, who is running to serve all of Lake County, brings decades of law enforcement experience to the race. His background includes roles as a firearms instructor, juvenile officer, and field training officer. Supporters say that experience gives him a grounded understanding of both public safety and the importance of trust between deputies and the communities they serve.

From my perspective here in Antioch, one of the strongest elements of Buchberger's campaign is his emphasis on visibility and accountability. Residents throughout western Lake County often express frustration with leadership that feels distant or disconnected. Buchberger's message is centered on showing up, listening, and engaging directly with the public rather than leading from behind a desk.

Buchberger has consistently said that effective policing starts long before a crisis occurs. His platform focuses on proactive patrols, strong relationships with local communities, and partnerships with schools and youth organizations. He believes deputies should be seen as approachable professionals who are part of the community, not strangers who only appear when something goes wrong.

Another issue resonating with voters is his commitment to rebuilding morale and staffing within the Lake County Sheriff's Office. Buchberger has spoken candidly about burnout and retention challenges and has called for leadership that supports deputies while maintaining high standards of professionalism and integrity.

Although the sheriff's race spans the entire county, interest in Buchberger's campaign is growing in towns like Antioch, where residents value straightforward leadership, personal responsibility, and public servants who understand the communities they protect.

As the election approaches, Roman Buchberger continues to meet with residents across Lake County, outlining a vision for a Sheriff's Office that is present, accountable, and trusted. For many voters, this race is about restoring confidence in local law enforcement leadership. Buchberger's supporters believe his experience and approach make him the right choice to lead Lake County forward.