BY MILES LAYTON / ALBEMARLE OBSERVER
ELIZABETH CITY — The race for Pasquotank County sheriff is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched local contests ahead of the Republican Primary on March 3, 2026, with incumbent Sheriff Tommy Wooten facing a challenge from within his own office.
Wooten, who has served as sheriff for the past seven years, announced this week that he is seeking reelection. He will be opposed in the Republican primary by Nina Daniels, a lieutenant in the Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office who currently works under his command – bet that’s going to be awkward at the office Christmas party.
In a statement released Wednesday, Wooten reflected on his tenure and acknowledged the unusual dynamic created by the race.
“As Sheriff of Pasquotank County for the last seven years, I would like to thank the citizens of Pasquotank County for giving me the opportunity to serve you as your sheriff,” Wooten said. “Nina Daniels, previously a Sergeant in our Civil Division, whom I promoted to Lieutenant over our School Resource Officers and the Civil Division, has filed to run against me in the Republican Primary on March 3rd, 2026.”
Wooten addressed concerns about the professional relationship between a sitting sheriff and a subordinate running against him, emphasizing expectations for conduct within the department.
“Two people running in the same office can be uncomfortable due to the boss/subordinate relationship and a possible division of loyalties,” he said. “But as professionals, we should be above the pettiness in elections.”
To avoid conflicts and ensure the office remains focused on public service, Wooten reiterated department policy regarding political activity.
“To maintain an office that works for the citizens, I am reminding our employees that there will be no campaigning while on duty: in the office, in uniform, or in patrol cars,” he said. “That is our policy and one that will be adhered to.”
Wooten said the sheriff’s office will continue operating as usual during the campaign.
“This office, under my command, will continue to serve the residents of Pasquotank County to the best of our abilities,” he said.
Looking ahead, Wooten said the campaign will give him an opportunity to highlight accomplishments and future plans.
“I look forward to having a platform to promote the changes and improvements in our office over the last seven years, and to make you aware of new projects that we are working on,” he said. “Again, thank you for the support that you have given our office and officers, and we remain committed to serving you.”
Daniels, who is also known in the community as Juanita “Nina” Daniels, announced her candidacy in a separate statement that focused on her local roots, education, and experience in law enforcement.
“Friends, neighbors, and fellow residents of Pasquotank County, it is with honor and immense pride that I stand before you today to introduce my candidacy for Sheriff of Pasquotank County,” Daniels said. “My name is Juanita Daniels, also known as Nina Daniels to most in the community.”
Daniels said she was raised in Pasquotank County and has deep ties to the area.
“Raised right here in Pasquotank County, I walked the same streets, attended the same schools, and share the same values as many of you,” she said.
After graduating from Pasquotank County High School in 2006, Daniels said she continued her education at East Carolina University.
“After graduating from Pasquotank County High School in 2006, I pursued my passion for justice in the community at East Carolina University, where I earned degrees in criminal justice and child psychology,” she said.
Daniels highlighted her decade of service in the sheriff’s office and her work within the community.
“Over the last decade, I’ve had the honor of serving the citizens of Pasquotank County through investigating cases, supporting victims, mentoring children, and standing shoulder to shoulder with those who protect and serve,” she said.
She emphasized relationship-building and a focus on youth as central to her approach to law enforcement.
“I have worked consistently on bettering relationships and trust within our community and within our school systems,” Daniels said. “I believe by investing in our children’s future, we can create a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Pasquotank County for all.”
Daniels concluded her announcement by formally entering the race.
“I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for sheriff, and I am here to serve you, the citizens of Pasquotank County, with integrity and commitment as your next sheriff,” she said.