Republicans Win Key Sheriff Primaries in Wisconsin Counties

Republican primary elections on August 12, 2026, determined the leadership of several Wisconsin law enforcement agencies. In Waukesha County, Nick Ollinger, a 13-year veteran and captain of the Detective Bureau, defeated John Gscheidmeier. Because no Democratic candidate is running in the general election, Ollinger's victory secures him the office starting in January. He campaigned on a platform of departmental unification and the implementation of body-worn cameras to increase transparency for the judiciary and the public.

In Chippewa County, incumbent Sheriff Travis Hakes retained his position after winning 73.8% of the vote, defeating challenger Mark Hollister. While Hakes attributed the result to the will of the people, he remains at odds with the Chippewa County District Attorney's Office. District Attorney Wade Newell and five assistant district attorneys previously signed a letter stating that Hakes should not continue as sheriff.

Other regional results included Cary Madrigal defeating Henry Perez for sheriff in Racine County, while incumbent David Zoerner retained his position in Kenosha County.