Former Pasco County Sheriff Josh Nocco achieved a decisive victory over Democratic challenger Jordan Hensley in the race for Florida State Senate District 21. Unofficial election results show Nocco securing 60.7 percent of the vote while Hensley received 39.3 percent of the vote. The Republican Nocco, who formerly served as sheriff for multiple terms, resigned from his position to run for the state legislature seat. Jeff Harrington, who previously served as chief of staff under Nocco, was appointed interim sheriff to maintain law enforcement operations during the transition period. Nocco will represent districts including parts of southwest Pasco and northern Pinellas counties and must campaign again in 2028 for a full four-year term.
Key Points:
- Nocco received 60.7 percent of the vote compared to 39.3 percent for challenger Jordan Hensley
- Nocco resigned as sheriff on Monday night to pursue a seat in the Florida State Senate
- Jeff Harrington was appointed interim sheriff by the chief judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit
- Nocco previously served as sheriff from 2012 to 2024 under multiple re-election terms
- The Senate district includes communities around Port Richey, New Port Richey, and Clearwater
