Kenosha County Primary Results: Kerkman and Matoska-Mentink Both Advance to General Election in April For County Executive Post

Samantha Kerkman addressing Supporters Tuesday Night
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson)

County Executive

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Out of three candidates for Kenosha County Executive, two remain – Kenosha Clerk of Courts Rebecca Matoska-Mentink and State Representative Samantha Kerkman. The two women received more than 80% of the votes and were separated by only 901 votes. Outgoing County Board Member Jerry Gulley came in a distant third place, being eliminated from the race. Kerkman, when asked via phone, had a one-word response when asked for a message for her supporters – “Thank you!”

Reached by email, Matoska-Mentink had the following to say:

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“I want to thank the voters of Kenosha County for the confidence that you showed in me last night- as you have for the last 16 years.

Kenosha County deserves a leader who will unite, lead, and create results for all people. I appreciate the faith you have in my experience, my education, my passion and my dedication in moving Kenosha forward.

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Thank you again to everyone who came out in the primary. “

Gulley issued the following statement.

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County Board District 16

Amanda Nedweski looks at the election results with her younger brother, Matt Nedweski (left) and her partner, Norm Pratt (right) (Photo by Kevin Mathewson)

County Board District 16 was also on the ballot for a primary. Political new-comer Amanda Nedweski of Pleasant Prairie took first place in a 3-way primary with LaVerne Jaros trailing by 10 points. Nedweski and Jaros will face each other in the April 5 general election.

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Alderman District 6

Voters in Kenosha’s 6th Aldermanic District will have two options on April 5 – Dave Paff(i) and Brandi Ferree. Ferree had a slight lead over incumbent Paff. Ryan Havron took a distant third place and was eliminated from the race.

Bristol School District Board

Out of five candidates, four will advance to the general election. Tina Elfering, Stephen Grimm, Danielle Whitaker, and Lauren Zimmer will advance. JoDee Hale-Schmid was eliminated.

Author

Kevin Mathewson

Kevin Mathewson is a disciple of Christ, husband and a father to two wonderful children. Mathewson was born and raised in Lake County, IL and worked as a police & fire dispatcher from 2005 to 2010 in Round Lake Beach, IL. Mathewson moved to Kenosha County in 2006, later being elected to the position of Alderman of the 8th District in 2012 and 2016. Mathewson is a private investigator, security contractor, journalist, and photographer. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, camping and boating. His favorite amendment is the second, followed closely by the first. He loves his country and community.

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4 Responses

Kathryn Woods says:

February 16, 2022 at 9:19 AM

Congratulations to the winners!

Reply
Lars says:

February 16, 2022 at 3:55 PM

Rebecca Matoska- Mentink a long time establishment Kenosha official.
Hmm, I’m sure she is nothing but trustworthy, non- corrupt and above board.

Reply
K says:

February 17, 2022 at 10:05 AM

Congratulations, Amanda! A fresh take on things is exactly what Kenosha county needs! Too bad all of the County Exec candidates are nothing more than career politicians.

Reply
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