A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Richland County Election Department on February 5, 2025. The request, made by media organization The Sconi, seeks comprehensive details about all candidates running in the upcoming election.
The Sconi has requested a list of all candidates participating in the forthcoming election under the Wisconsin Open Records Law, §19.31 et seq. The information sought includes the first, middle and last names of each candidate, the office they are running for, their jurisdiction of office and party affiliation.
In addition to these basic details, The Sconi has also requested contact information for each candidate. This includes their address, phone number and email address.
As a media organization committed to providing accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, The Sconi emphasizes its role in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is deemed essential for them to fulfill their professional responsibilities which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
The Sconi believes that given its role in disseminating information, it is eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional. It awaits a response from the Richland County Election Department regarding this comprehensive FOIA request.
