The Pierce County Journal composed and sent out election questionnaires to all candidates running in local races, including Pierce County Board, village boards, school boards, city councils, one municipal judge race and three town board races. We tried to craft the questions in order to allow for citizens to get to know candidates and how they feel about local issues, which affect residents in their everyday lives.
The questionnaires were sent by email to candidates almost three weeks ago. For those who did not respond, they were sent two reminder emails. If they did not respond, that is noted below.
Incumbents are marked with an asterisk *. These are the people you will see on your April 7, 2026 ballot.
To find your local polling place, which will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, visit https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/Whats-On-My-Ballot or contact the municipality directly.
Daniel Gorman* is facing challenger Clint Delander for the River Falls Municipal Judge position.
Occupation/profession: Attorney
Previous elected positions: River Falls Municipal Judge
In what community/civic activities/organizations have you been involved? Over the years I have served in numerous community-based organizations and projects. These include the Pierce County Clean Sweep initiative, Community Gardens, TC Maker Space, and others. After being elected judge, I have had to take a step back from many of these organizations as much of the work requires the solicitation of labor or funds, and the rules of judicial ethics prevent judges from solicitation generally.
Why are you running for municipal judge? River Falls is a great community. That isn't by chance; it is made great by the contributions of everyone who lives here. I've found over the past eight years that being the municipal judge is a good way to put my knowledge and experience to use in service of our community.
Can you describe your experience in the legal field? I graduated from William Mitchell College of Law in 2011. The same year I passed the Wisconsin Bar to become a licensed attorney. For the past eight years I have been the Municipal Judge of River Falls.
How do you handle cases involving repeat offenders? The primary goal of the municipal court process is to encourage better outcomes in the future. If bad decisions continue to be made, then the court has to take different actions. Those actions are specific to the facts of the case, whether the person is an adult or juvenile, and the severity of the offence. Generally, the more times a person appears in front of the municipal court the higher the fines and penalties become, but that is not the only option. In many cases the court can direct a person to resources such as social workers or substance abuse programs to help the underlying issue. Also, community service as an alternative to a fine often works better as it shows the individual what it is like to contribute to the community and how their actions affect it.
How do you stay current with changes in the law? I actively read new Wisconsin and Federal Supreme Court cases regarding issues that apply to the municipal court system. This is particularly necessary in areas of individual constitutional rights because not applying the current law is an injustice. Further, both as a lawyer and as a judge every year I must take a specified amount of continuing legal education credits. These are on areas of judicial ethics, changes in law, and court practice. I am an active participant in the judicial listserv. I still learn from judges more experienced than me, and help judges less experienced with issues they are having in their courts. I also attend the annual judicial education conference.
Share an example of a particular case or community service experience and what you learned from it. My first real case out of law school I represented a person with substance abuse issues. This was their first time being in trouble with the law, and it was a real wake-up call for him and his family. Before even the initial appearance, he started counseling for both his substance abuse and mental health issues. He went to an inpatient addiction treatment facility, and upon graduation continued with weekly meetings. He was 100% committed to being clean and sober, and had the support of, and accountability to, his family, job, and sponsor. When it came time for sentencing the judge said, "none of that mattered" and imposed the state recommended sentence. I remember being disappointed in that ruling. If the primary purpose of justice is to have people do better in the future, then taking the issue seriously, getting treatment, being accountable absolutely should matter. For me being a good judge is not merely a mechanical process. For justice to be “just” it must relate directly to the facts of the case and take the time to consider all of the relevant information.
Why should people vote for you? For the past eight years I have worked to ensure that every person appearing before the court receives due process, impartial justice, and respect for their constitutional rights. These are not abstract ideals; they are your fundamental rights that must be understood and protected by the judge on the bench. In this election, I am the only candidate who is a licensed attorney, and the only one who has practiced law in Wisconsin under the Rules of Professional Ethics. I know the law, I know your rights, and I have a proven record of applying them justly.
How can you be reached? Court related matters can be directed to the Municipal Court Clerk at 222 Lewis St, River Falls, WI 54022.
Occupation/profession: Small business owner
Previous elected positions: None
In what community/civic activities/organizations have you been involved? Red Cross, United Way, River Falls Youth Sports, Boys Scouts, Lions, Feed My Starving Children, The Courage Center, and Special Olympics.
Why are you running for municipal judge? Like many people, I experienced challenges in my youth. I still remember how a trusted adult in a position of authority took the time to guide me and help me get back on track. That investment made a lasting impact on my life. Serving as municipal judge would be an opportunity for me to provide that same sense of fairness, accountability, and encouragement to others.
Can you describe your experience in the legal field? While I am not an attorney, Wisconsin does not require municipal judges to hold a law degree. My professional experience has involved applying rules, making fair and consistent decisions, and working with people from many different backgrounds. I have taken steps to study municipal court procedures and relevant laws to ensure I am prepared to serve effectively. My priority is to administer the court in a fair, respectful, and practical manner for the citizens of River Falls.
How do you handle cases involving repeat offenders? Cases involving repeat offenders require a balance of accountability and understanding. I believe it is important to look at each situation individually, consider the underlying causes of repeated violations, and apply the law consistently. The goal is to encourage compliance and positive change while maintaining fairness and protecting the community. A municipal court should provide structure, clear expectations, and opportunities for individuals to make better choices moving forward.
How do you stay current with changes in the law? Staying current with changes in the law requires ongoing education and a commitment to professional development. I would regularly participate in municipal judge training programs, review updates to statutes and case law, and utilize resources provided by the Wisconsin court system. I also believe in maintaining open communication with court staff, attorneys, and other judges to stay informed on emerging issues. Continuous learning is essential to ensuring decisions are fair, consistent, and grounded in current law.
Share an example of a particular case or community service experience and what you learned from it. Through my professional and community involvement, I have worked with individuals facing difficult circumstances, particularly situations involving youth and families. These experiences reinforced the importance of listening carefully, treating people with dignity, and understanding the broader factors that may contribute to their behavior. I learned that accountability is most effective when paired with clear expectations and constructive guidance. This perspective would shape how I approach cases in municipal court, with a focus on fairness, respect, and positive outcomes for the community.
Why should people vote for you? Voters should support my candidacy because I am committed to ensuring the municipal court operates with fairness, consistency, and respect for every individual who appears before it. I bring strong decision-making skills, a practical understanding of how local government serves the community, and a dedication to treating people with dignity. My focus is on maintaining a court that is accessible, impartial, and focused on positive outcomes. I am prepared to serve with integrity and a steady, community-focused approach.
How can you be reached? info@votedelander.com
