Jody Madeira has won the Democratic nomination for the District 3 seat on the Monroe County Board of Commissioners.
On Tuesday, Madeira beat incumbent Penny Githens and former Bloomington City Council member Steve Volan.
"I'm stunned, I'm thrilled, I'm excited, and I can't wait to get to work for the people of Monroe County," Madeira said. "I was amazed at how decisive my own numbers were."
Madeira and Volan both heavily criticized Githens at debates, accusing her of poorly collaborating with other elected officials and stalling efforts such as building a new county jail and expanding the convention center. Githens has defended her actions.
Githens declined an interview with WFIU/WTIU News but wrote in a statement that she will continue to serve the community through this year and is proud of her time in office.
Madeira is a law professor at Indiana University. She has cited the jail project as one of her top priorities, along with improving city-county relations and access to community resources.
Commissioner District 3 covers the eastern portion of the county, which includes Benton, Clear Creek, Salt Creek, Washington and parts of Perry and Polk townships. Candidates must live in the district, but all county voters are eligible to vote for them.
Madeira will face Republican Joe Van Deventer in the November general election.
