Ralph Malicki elected Racine County executive

According to unofficial results posted on Racine County’s website around 8:30 p.m., Malicki received 8,930 votes, about 76% of those cast.

Wendy Christensen received 2,727 votes and there were 77 write-ins.

Malicki will finish the term of former Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave, who passed away in June.

In a statement posted to the Malicki for Racine County Executive Facebook page, Malicki thanked his team, supporters and Christensen, and called his victory “a win for all of us who believe in a brighter, more prosperous future for our community.”

“As I take on the responsibility of serving as your County Executive, I remain deeply committed to improving the quality of life for all residents, driving economic growth and ensuring responsible stewardship of our resources,” the post said. “Together, we will move Racine County forward and build a community that thrives for generations to come. The real work starts now, and I couldn’t be more excited to serve you all!”

In a statement Thursday night, Christensen said that when she stepped up to run for office after Delagrave’s death, it was because she felt she had experience that she could bring to the position and that she would be able to improve the community.

“I still feel that way and can continue that work on behalf of the people who live here,” she said. “I have already contacted Ralph with my congratulations and look forward to working with him as a colleague.”