Ranae Bartlett wins Madison mayor’s race

Bartlett captured over 56% of the vote in three-candidate race, avoiding runoff

MADISON – Madison has a new mayor, Madison City Council member Ranae Bartlett decidedly won the position tonight over two opponents, city administrator Steve Smith and activist Margi Daily.

Bartlett nabbed 56% of the vote with 4,581 ballots cast in her favor. Smith followed with 2,620 votes (32%) and Daily trailed with almost 12% of the vote (966).

Mayor Paul Finley did not run for re-election.

“I am running for mayor because I believe Madison deserves leadership that listens intently, plans strategically, and delivers results to the people who entrust us to serve,” Bartlett during her campaign.

Bartlett currently represents District 5 on the city council and serves as president pro tempore. She has held key roles on the council including finance committee chair and council president.

Prior to her service on the council, Bartlett served on the Madison City Board of Education, including terms as vice president and president.

Beyond public service, Bartlett’s career spans non-profit leadership and corporate law. From 1999 until 2003, Bartlett served as assistant general counsel for Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., overseeing complex litigation.

In 2013, Bartlett founded the Madison City Chess League which fosters community engagement and programs in chess education and led a dedicated initiative for young girls. Currently, she serves as the Executive Director of the US Chess Federation.

Bartlett said her vision for Madison includes fostering responsible economic growth, enhancing education opportunities, and investing in city infrastructure.

“I’ve spent my career working to build strong communities, whether through education, public policy, or organizational leadership,” Bartlett said. “As Mayor, I will work tirelessly to ensure Madison is a place where families thrive, businesses prosper, and every voice is heard.”