(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Local criminal defense attorney Xavier Solis, 46, was sworn in today as Kenosha County’s District Attorney. Solis is Kenosha County’s first Mexican-American to hold county-wide office and the first Republican District Attorney since 1924, 100 years ago. He was sworn in front of all eight Kenosha County Circuit Court Judges in the ceremonial court room.
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
“The Republicans are back,” said Judge Bruce E. Schroeder (Ret.) who administered the oath of office today. Solis defeated Kenosha County’s previous Deputy District Attorney in November. He replaces Mike Graveley (D) who was a no-show at today’s ceremony. The venue, however, was standing-room only. Prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges, court commissioners, family, friends, and Kenosha County residents packed into the large courtroom to witness history.
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Sheriff David W. Zoerner opened today’s ceremony by calling the court to session.
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Deputy Chief Judge Chad Kerkman gave the introductions.
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Reverend James Roemke, of Messiah Lutheran Church, gave the invocation. He was made famous by his Trump impersonation during last year’s RNC.
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
The Kenosha County Sheriff Honor Guard presented the American flag.
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
DA Solis’ son, Camren, led the pledge of allegiance.
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Kenosha County Supervisor David Geertsen gave some remarks.
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Retired Judge Bruce E. Schroeder gave some remarks and then administered the Oath of Office to Solis.
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Solis then said the following speech, going off-script a few times:
“Good afternoon, distinguished guests, colleagues, friends, and fellow residents of Kenosha County.
First and foremost, I want to express my profound gratitude to Judge Bruce Schroder for administering the oath of office today. Your dedication to justice and the rule of law has set a high standard for all of us. I would also like to thank Judge Kerkman and the rest of the circuit court judges for joining us for this momentous occasion. Your presence here means so much, not just to me, but to everyone who believes in the integrity of our legal system.
To the elected officials here today, including Sheriff David Zoerner, County Executive Samantha Kerkman, members of the County Board of Supervisors, and municipal leaders from across Kenosha County—thank you for your support and for the vital roles you play in making our community a better place.
As I stand here today, I am humbled and deeply honored to serve as your District Attorney. My journey to this moment is one of gratitude and reflection. As the child of Mexican American migrant farm workers, I grew up knowing the value of hard work and perseverance. I was the first in my family to graduate from college, and ultimately law school. My story is not just my own; it is the story of the American Dream. It’s a testament to what is possible when opportunity meets determination, and it’s a reflection of the values that make this country great.
I’ve spent my career fighting for justice as a defense attorney, and that experience has given me a unique perspective on the importance of fairness, accountability, and the rule of law. It was President Abraham Lincoln who once said, “Let every American, every lover of liberty, every well-wisher to his posterity, swear by the blood of the Revolution, never to violate in the least particular, the laws of the country, and never to tolerate their violation by others.” These profound words, which are inscribed on the very walls of this courtroom, resonate deeply. Delivered just 250 miles away in 1838, they remind us of the enduring importance of adhering to the rule of law and safeguarding the principles that form the bedrock of our nation. His words remind us of the importance of adhering to the principles that have guided this nation since its founding. These principles—the Constitution and the rule of law—must remain our steadfast guides as we work to build a safer, more just Kenosha County.
Public safety is a shared responsibility, and I look forward to collaborating with Sheriff Zoerner and the police chiefs across our municipalities. Together, we will address the challenges that threaten our community—violent crime, drug trafficking, and the organized retail theft rings that harm our small business owners. To those who seek to victimize our community, let me be clear: your days of leniency are over. We will prosecute criminals to the fullest extent of the law, with a special focus on violent offenders, sexual predators—especially those who betray the trust of our community, like educators in our schools—and those who endanger lives by fleeing and eluding law enforcement.
Justice also means standing up for victims. I am committed to ensuring that every victim in Kenosha County receives the justice they deserve. This commitment extends to the hardworking men and women of the Kenosha County District Attorney’s Office. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to serving our community. I am also thrilled to welcome new members to our team who share our vision for a fair and effective justice system. Together, we will uphold the highest standards of integrity and fairness.
I would like to thank Attorney Drew Burgoyne, who has agreed to serve as my Deputy District Attorney. Drew’s experience and commitment to justice make him an invaluable asset to this office and Kenosha County.
Lastly, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported me throughout my campaign. Your belief in our shared vision for Kenosha County has been my inspiration. This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to all of us who are committed to making our community safer, stronger, and more just.
We will pursue justice with vigor, fairness, and a renewed focus on accountability. Together, we will ensure that Kenosha County remains a place where the rule of law prevails and where every resident can feel safe and proud to call this community home.
Thank you, and may God bless Kenosha County and may God bless the United States of America.”
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
State Representative Amanda Nedweski then gave a closing speech. Here are some more photos from today’s ceremony:
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
60 Responses
100 years ago was the last republican DA in Kenosha. Congratulations Xavier.
Congratulations, Xavier. I was down with a bout of norovirus but am rooting for you.
You got this Xavs, you got this!
Hey hey the gang is all here 👊🏻
Congrats, but how much did that dog and pony show cost all of us?
Already wasting money…we need a libertarian in office.
The oath of office is mandatory. He, like every elected district attorney or judge, chose to have a celebration that he bore the cost of.
I’m so relieved that Gravely is gone. I’m even more relieved that this didn’t happen on taxpayer dime.
Good, I’d hate to foot the bill for anyone’s party.
Sorry, not sorry.
Seriously you have to go there righ ht out of the gate? Get a life!
Someone has to. Uncheck sh*t can get outta hand. 🤘🏼
Is this Mike Gravely ? 😂🖕🤡
Oh, bless your hearts! You still can’t wrap your heads around the fact that you lost. The people gave you a nice, big kick in the arsch, and now they’re just swimming in a sea of desperation and envy. You were fired!
Good riddance to Gravely who showed his lack of class by not showing up at swearing in ceremony!
He was just busy counting his $5000 per week pension money .
You’re an idiot if you think he pulls a $260,000/year pension
It’s per month, not week.
Scum of the Earth Democrats like Graveley have no class.
Now- DA Solis please take NO plea bargains for fleeing with, or fighting with police from this point forward. Every arrest is on camera. Fleeing and fighting is what “causes” the use of force by police.
Make it known that if you fight or flee in Kenosha you will be charged, and will be convicted. No lazy pleas or “welp” the criminal just couldn’t help himself, he had to flee/fight.
Yes, yes and yes.
Take the handcuffs off the police and put them on the criminals.
Dear Mr Solis,
Please look into why the Indian Trail student who brought the loaded gun into school a month ago hasn’t been charged as an adult. Please announce to your constituents your findings.
God bless this great country! Law and order restored one election at a time. 2025 is going to be fantastic.
Good riddance Gravely!
Jodie Meier didn’t want her photo taken?
She’s a lazy judge. She’s awful. I know people have waited for a decision for her for months. I was just talking to a lady that’s been 3 months that she is not gotten a decision on her divorce meanwhile ex husband keeps spending money out of their account. Like getting hair plugs. Lol not kidding. She sits they’re not giving decision. What about the kids. Never vote for her again..
She has time to organize rock paper scissor lol what allows you judge.
That was another stupid waste of money (by way of paying these people to play games).
Hey! That guy needs new hair. Chronic alopecia affects millions of American families.
She also hides behind closed hearings in juvenile court to act like a complete bully. She threatened not to do an adoption because the young CHILD was making too much noise – meanwhile the entire family and friends were waiting and she was pitching a fit! Who hates life so much that they would threaten to ruin the most important day in a family’s life? Jodi does. Just because she is a bitter old maid…maybe that can be the next game she organizes – Old Maid. 🧙♀️
Thank you Patty
Would you want to when you look bloated up like a puff fish like Jodi Meier does?? Woof! Try a salad!
Lmao
100%!!
AAngie’s got the face bloat… alcohol will do that to a person.
Were Stef Cap and her eyeliner protesting and crying outside the courthouse?
Lmfao 🤣
Gravely thank God he’s gone. Very biased. Shady. All political nothing about the justice system. Shame on him.
Gravely shoes his lack of class and professionalism by not attending. So glad he is gone.
Xavier Solis, Congratulations, and let’s get Kenosha back!
Back from where?
Back in the days when baby killers were prosecuted, regardless of who the killer’s husband was.
When Gravely let Blake walk, well, roll away, from justice I was dismayed. That perp cost the city a lot more than millions in damage. Gravely, Adios MF.
So
It’s fair to say in that case, gravely was either pro rapist, or does not believe black female sexual assault victims.
“DA Solis’ son, Camren, led the pledge of allegiance.”
No doubt he at least knows the pledge, unlike our soon to be out-going disaster of a vice president.
He also knows how to beat bitches, too. Little angry Mexicans.
Bitches such as K amala and Carli?
At least he doesn’t order prostites like Anderson Law founder (found guilty) and our recent Pleasant prairie judge was arrested for…..
Congratulations Xavier! This is a huge win for all of us! Continue to do Gods will. I have a feeling you will do great things!
Thanks be to God for Xavier Solis! I wish him the very best here in Kenosha. Maybe our city can shine once again with his great leadership!
Better get Kerkman outta there, first. Replace her with a conservative non-politician like Racine did with Malicki. Then, the whole county can start to shine! She’s the very definition of a RINO lifetime politician with no discernible skills or knowledge.
Start with Berg!
Not true. She’s very skilled in getting her picture taken with anyone at any time.
Cuz she’s fat
🎤
When can we expect DA Solis’ office to announce the indictment of Andy Berg?
This!!!! Inquiring minds would like to know so we can celebrate!
👀
It is profoundly unethical what is being done to the population of our county by those who have collectively, in an organized and even conspiratorial manner, decided to instigate a mass exodus from the Molinaro building. They are employing a scorched earth tactic to hinder the efforts of the Prosecutor elected by the people. Through their actions, these individuals clearly demonstrate a disregard for the safety of the people and the victims, revealing a significant level of selfishness and a lack of concern for the community’s well-being. Their intentional actions will cause an inevitable paralysis in the administration of justice, which will ultimately harm the entire community. None of these individuals should be permitted to hold public office again.
Finally, Carli, why don’t you do us a big favor and take your boss, mentor, and strategist, Angie, with you?
Maybe she can spend a night with Jr. Like a congenial visit. lol
Less Subaru’s parked outside the courthouse these days.