(Each candidate who has officially filed to run for a seat in the 2026 primary has been sent a form to fill out and return to the Hendersonian.)
Name: Anthony Willett
Party: Republican
Age: 46
Education: Henderson County High School graduate; Some college coursework
Experience: Five years, United States Marine Corps; Ten years at Henderson County Detention Center (Deputy to Major of Operations), 2002–2012; Defensive tactics instructor at HCDC, 2020–2024; Extensive leadership, training and operations experience
Current occupation: Lieutenant / Administrative Commander Henderson County Sheriff’s Office
Family: Wife, Patti McCuiston-Willett; Blended family of six children and several grandchildren.
Why did you decide to run for this office?
I’m running for Henderson County Jailer because our detention center should reflect our values: safety, fairness, accountability, and second chances. I’ve served inside that jail, supervised its operations, and trained the men and women who protect it. I’ve seen how leadership directly impacts safety, morale, and public trust. This office demands someone who will be present, hands-on, and willing to make tough decisions the right way—not the easy way. I believe every person in that facility is someone’s family, including the staff, and they deserve leadership that stands with them while demanding professionalism.
Why do you believe you are the best choice for this seat?
I’ve worked every level this job touches—Marine Corps veteran, former Major of Operations at the jail, and now Lieutenant / Administrative Commander at the Sheriff’s Office. I understand the floor, the office, the budget, and the responsibility we owe this community. My leadership is firm but fair: set clear expectations, communicate the “why,” support good work, and correct problems directly.I bring proven experience, stability, and a servant’s heart—not politics—to this office.
What are your top priorities for the next term, if elected?
· Safety & Staffing: Strengthen training, supervision, and retention so every deputy goes home safe and the jail runs professionally.
· Clean Slate for Staff – No One Fired Day One: I will not walk in and fire deputies. While I cannot erase official records, as far as my administration is concerned, every deputy starts with a clean slate and clear expectations. From that point forward, it’s up to each person to prove themselves— they’ll have a genuine opportunity to shine and grow, or show they’re not ready, based solely on their choices, effort, and heart moving forward. Any restructuring will be thoughtfully considered to ensure the jail is led with integrity, professionalism, transparency, and a strong foundation of trust and accountability.
· Rehabilitation & Reentry: Expand addiction treatment, faith-based programs, education, and job-readiness to reduce repeat offenders.
· Fiscal Responsibility: Protect tax dollars, eliminate waste, and pursue grants.
· Community Trust: Be visible, transparent, and collaborative with courts, law enforcement, churches, and community partners.
A final brief statement to support your candidacy.
Henderson County deserves a Jailer who knows the work, respects the staff, and protects this community with integrity. With decades of experience in corrections, training, and law enforcement, I am ready to provide steady, accountable leadership at the detention center. I will not come in to fire people for show. Instead, every deputy will be given a clean slate, a clear standard, and strong leadership so they can succeed or fail based on their actions moving forward. I am committed to safe operations, responsible spending, and real opportunities for rehabilitation. I respectfully ask for your vote for Henderson County Jailer.
