MADISON, Wis. -- Democrat Dave Mahoney on Tuesday soundly defeated his Republican opponent Mike Hanson to become the next Dane County sheriff.

VIDEO: Hanson Concedes Sheriff's Race To Mahoney (Extended Coverage) | VIDEO: Mahoney Speaks On Sheriff's Race (Extended Coverage)

Mahoney (pictured right), a Dane County police detective and 26-year veteran of the sheriff's department, secured 66 percent of the vote, compared to Hanson's 34 percent.

There was no incumbent in the race after Dane County Sheriff Gary Hamblin decided not to seek re-election. Although Hamblin was Dane County's sheriff for the last nine years and worked with both candidates, he didn't make an endorsement in the race.

During the campaign, both candidates touted the same issues but advocated with different approaches.

Hanson gave an emotion concession speech on Tuesday evening, fighting back tears as he thanked his supporters.

Hanson has worked with Madison police for five years and is a three-term supervisor on the Dane County board.