MADISON (WKOW) – What started as a crowded race with four candidates is now down to two.
State Senator Melissa Agard won the primary election for Dane County Executive with 57% of the vote, followed by former Dane County Board Supervisor Dana Pellebon with about 17%. The top two candidates advance to the general election in November.
Regina Vidaver garnered about 15% of the vote and Wes Sparkman earned 10%.
This race aims to fill the position left vacant by Joe Parisi, who retired in May after serving in the role since 2011.
Both Agard and Pellebon expressed excitement about continuing the race.
Agard said in a statement:
"I was born and raised right here in Dane County and it is where I am raising my four amazing sons. I graduated from Madison East High School and UW Madison. I have served our community as a County Board Supervisor, a member of the State Assembly and the Senate, and the Senate Democratic Leader
I am running to build a stronger community for everyone who calls Dane County home. I am an experienced, proven collaborative leader. I have dedicated my life to ensuring fairness, safety, and prosperity for all people. The coalitions that I have built over the years and the support of the good people of Dane County uniquely qualify me for this position.
Every kid must know that their dreams matter and that they can achieve anything. I will work collaboratively to build a safer and stronger community for everyone who calls Dane County home. I will invest in more housing, continue to lead in addressing climate change and environmental protections, confront racial disparities, and prioritize innovative workforce development and supporting local businesses.
I seek out as many voices as possible to ensure the best outcomes, and I have successfully worked across the aisle as the Senate Democratic Leader to get things done. I have never forsaken my progressive values. I will always fight for a stronger Dane County.
I’m endorsed by former Dane County Executives Joe Parisi & Kathleen Falk, as well as leaders and organizations from cities, villages, and towns across Dane County. I would be honored to earn the trust and votes of the people of Dane County to serve as the next County Executive."
Meanwhile Pellebon is equally eager to get on the campaign trail before November. She said in a statement to 27 News:
"It’s an honor to run to represent the residents of Dane County. The work I’ve done for 30 years to better the lives of everyone has been evident in housing, human services and the criminal legal system. My executive experience and ties to many communities and county agencies allow me to step into the position ready to lead from day one. Thank you to the incredible amount of support shown throughout the county. I look forward to continuing this race through November."
As the race heats up, expect intensified outreach to Dane County voters in the coming months.
Whoever wins this election in November will only serve until May of 2025. In order to keep the job for a full term, they would need to run again and win in April of 2025.
For more information on Melissa Agard’s campaign for county executive, visit here.
For more information on Dana Pellebon’s campaign for county executive, visit here.
More at WKOW 27 News