Melissa Kristen Agard is an American small business owner and Democratic politician from Madison, Wisconsin. She serves as the county executive of Dane County, Wisconsin, since November 2024. Previously known as Melissa Sargent during her time in the state legislature, she is a mother of three and has been active in local politics.

Education and Political Experience

• Wisconsin State Assembly: Served four terms representing Assembly District 48 from 2013 to 2021.
• Wisconsin State Senate: Represented Senate District 16 from 2021 to 2025; elected Minority Leader on November 16, 2022, succeeding Senator Janet Bewley; also served as Democratic Caucus Vice Chair in 2021.

Notable achievements: First elected while raising three young boys and running a small business; advanced to leadership roles in the state Senate, focusing on legislative priorities in her districts.