Commissioners, Tour Lake County launch America250 bobblehead public vote
Published by: The News-Herald
By: Chad Felton
Original article found here
Lake County commissioners, in partnership with Tour Lake County, have announced that voting for the America250 2026 commemorative bobblehead is now officially underway.
Community members are invited to visit tourlakecounty.com/america250 to view and read the nominees’ biographies and cast their votes.
Voting remains open through March 17, with only one vote permitted per person.
The 2026 commemorative bobblehead will be unveiled and handed out to the first 1,000 visitors at the Lake County Fair Aug. 1.
According to officials, the initiative continues to generate excitement as Lake County joins communities nationwide in celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The design receiving the most public support will move forward into production ahead of the July 4 celebration.
Funding for the 2026 bobblehead is provided by Tour Lake County and supporters of Lake County’s America 250 celebration.
The commissioners noted that the initiative follows the “tremendous success” of the 2025 Gen. Edward Paine bobblehead giveaway, which debuted at the Lake County Fair.
“Last year’s bobblehead showed how much pride our community has in its history and its people,” said Commissioner John Plecnik. “We’re excited to once again give residents a direct voice in this fun and meaningful part of our America 250 celebration.
“I encourage everyone to participate,” he added. “It’s a great way to connect with Lake County’s heritage as we prepare for this historic milestone.”
Tour Lake County Executive Director Neil Stein said narrowing down the list of nominations for the contest wasn’t at all easy.
“Lake County has had so many historical folks who’ve contributed to shaping our country into what it is today,” he added. “These six finalists, with varying ties to Lake County, all played very different roles in our nation’s long history, and we’re excited to see who the public thinks is the most deserving candidate for this year’s bobblehead.”