Dec. 19, 2024 10:05p
(WGTD)---It turned out to be a political endorsement of sorts from the grave: Just two months before he died unexpectedly, Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave disclosed to his friend Ralph Malicki that he wasn’t planning on seeking re-election, and that he—Malicki—should consider running.
Malicki told that story to campaign audiences in the runup to Thursday's special election for county executive—an election that Malicki won easily, defeating County Clerk Wendy Christensen by a more than three-to-one margin.
Malicki expects to be sworn in before the end of the year, replacing Interim County Exec Tom Roanhouse.
Malicki told his supporters at a crowded tavern in Franksville that he was humbled. "I am deeply touched by the support," said Malicki, adding that he was particularly honored to have the support of three of his predecessors: Jim Ladwig, Bill McReynolds and Jean Jacobson. All three were present at the victory celebration.
Malicki said he believed his strong showing at the polls was a payback of sorts for his heavy involvement in various community non-profits over the years.
Malicki will now fill out the remainder of Delagrave’s term, which ends in 2027.
Delagrave died in June, as he was entering his second year of a four-year term.
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