Racine County voters to pick first new sheriff in 16 years

Racine County residents will choose a new sheriff for the first time in 16 years on Tuesday. The election also determines the next state representative for the 33rd Assembly District, a seat left vacant by the announced retirement of Speaker Robin Vos.

Jill Lodle and Mary Skwierawski have served as election inspectors in Burlington for more than 10 years. Their preparation began weeks before the vote, starting with the recruitment of staff. Lodle stated that finding workers is the primary initial task. The team then observed the public testing of voting machines, which concluded last week. On Monday, the day before the election, they arrived at the facility to set up equipment.

Veterans Terrace serves as the sole in-person voting location for Burlington city residents. Skwierawski noted that the single-site arrangement requires careful management of traffic flow. The inspectors prioritized voting privacy and seating for observers. Skwierawski said a key goal is ensuring the voting machines function correctly.

Cary Madrigal and Don Vandervest are the candidates for sheriff. Both men currently hold positions within the Racine County Sheriff's Office. Madrigal serves as a captain, while Vandervest works in courthouse security. In the legislative race, Republican Steve Wicklund and Democrat Maria Elena Bisabarros are competing to replace Vos in the 33rd Assembly District, which covers parts of western Racine County including Burlington.

Wisconsin voters will also select a governor. Lodle described the early voting turnout on Monday as steady. She expressed an expectation that Tuesday would see heavy participation. "I think it should be heavy, but we'll see," Lodle said.

Polls across Wisconsin open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. on Tuesday.