State Rep. Dennis Tipsword (R-Metamora) announced he will not seek reelection to the Illinois House and instead will run for Woodford County Sheriff in 2026, following current Sheriff Matt Smith’s decision not to pursue a fourth term.
Tipsword, who also serves as Chief Deputy Sheriff, will complete his term as state representative through 2026. He had initially planned to run for a third term but shifted course once Smith confirmed he would step down.
“I’m proud of my work in Springfield, especially on public safety issues, but my heart remains in law enforcement,” Tipsword said.
With over 30 years in law enforcement — 18 with the Woodford County Sheriff’s Office and 11 as Chief Deputy — Tipsword brings extensive experience to the sheriff’s race. He holds a degree in Law Enforcement Administration from Western Illinois University and is a graduate of multiple advanced police training programs.
He and his wife Betsy, lifelong residents of Woodford County, have three children and eight grandchildren.
