KENOSHA, Wis. — A public Republican primary sheriff candidates forum has officially been finalized for Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at The Stella Hotel & Ballroom in downtown Kenosha. With no candidates running on the Democratic ticket, the winner of the Republican primary is expected to become the next sheriff of Kenosha County.
The event, hosted and sponsored by Kenosha County Eye, will feature confirmed appearances by Republican sheriff candidates Captain James Beller and Captain Tony Gonzalez. Incumbent Sheriff David Zoerner has also been invited, though he has not yet confirmed whether he will attend.
Brian Filiatreault, a longtime Kenosha County resident, local business owner, and undecided voter in the race, will moderate the event. Filiatreault will have full autonomy over moderation and questions in an effort to ensure fairness and eliminate any appearance of bias or impropriety.
The forum is intended to be conversational and informative rather than combative, giving voters an opportunity to hear directly from candidates about their backgrounds, priorities, and vision for the sheriff’s office.
Before the sheriff candidates take the stage, Republican State Senate candidate Sandy Wiedmeyer and State Assembly candidate Valerie Kretchmer will each briefly address attendees and answer several questions from the moderator.
The event will be free and open to the public. A cash bar will be available, and appetizers will be sponsored by Rose & Rose Attorneys at Law.
A large turnout is expected for the event, which will also be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube for those unable to attend in person.
