The race to become Cayuga County’s next sheriff is starting to take shape as a second law enforcement veteran steps forward.
Lt. Rob Franklin of the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office announced this week that he plans to run for sheriff, joining Auburn Police Department veteran Chris Major in the early field.
Franklin, a lifelong Cayuga County resident, currently serves as a detective lieutenant overseeing the Criminal Investigations, Records, and Identification divisions. He said he plans to seek the Republican and Conservative endorsements.
“I am committed to continue building a safer, more secure Cayuga County while staying focused on our current mission to enhance the quality of life for all citizens that we serve,” Franklin said. “With my supervisory and administrative experience, as well as my dedication to our community, I believe I am the right choice to lead your Sheriff’s Office into the future.”
Franklin grew up in Southern Cayuga County and graduated from Southern Cayuga Central School in 1997. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, later rising to the rank of staff sergeant and serving in Africa in 2005 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
After returning home, Franklin joined the Sheriff’s Office and graduated as valedictorian, Top Gun, and Top Driver from the Central New York Police Academy. His career has included roles as deputy sheriff, detective, and detective sergeant, along with years of service on the Sheriff’s Tactical Response Unit.
Franklin has also worked closely with agencies such as the Finger Lakes Drug Task Force, New York State Police, the Auburn Police Department, the FBI, and the Cayuga County District Attorney’s Office on major investigations. He is a certified ALERRT instructor and has trained officers and community members in active shooter response.
His announcement follows last week’s entry by Chris Major, a 21-year veteran of the Auburn Police Department. Major announced he is seeking the Republican and Conservative nominations in 2026, with a campaign focused on public safety, accountability, and continuing what he called the steady leadership of Sheriff Brian Schenck.
Sheriff Schenck announced in November that he will not seek re-election.
Major, also a lifelong Cayuga County resident, said his priorities include supporting deputies, addressing drug-related crime, and keeping the Sheriff’s Office responsive to residents.
With two experienced law enforcement leaders now in the race, the contest to succeed Schenck is expected to draw growing attention in the months ahead.
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