Metro East Sun

Incumbent Chris Slusser defeated Doug Hulme in the GOP primary for Madison County treasurer. 

Slusser took to Facebook after his victory.

"It was a dominating win last night, and I give God all the glory," Slusser said. "I want to thank the Republican voters in Madison County for trusting me with their votes. We ran a very strong campaign, based entirely on the good work that we've done in the Treasurer's Office and what we will continue to do. From day 1 in office, my mission has been to run the best County Treasurer's Office in the state. I have a great staff that bought into my philosophy and committed to excellence. I think the voters took notice and rewarded the great work that we've done."

This was an intense race as Slusser played a key role in Hulme’s firing as county administrator in 2020.

"My opponent chose to run the most dishonest and racist campaign we've ever seen in Madison County politics," he said. "I had no doubt that the Republican voters in Madison County would overwhelming reject his disgusting and juvenile campaign. There's no room in Madison County for that type of conduct and now we can move forward to do the people's business."

Apart from expressing his gratitude to his family, church, and friends, he also thanked other campaign supporters including various organizations and individuals.

"Patrick McRae for all of his hard work and long nights making sure things were getting done. Senator Jason Plummer for all of his support and help and encouragement," Slusser added. "State Rep. Amy Elik for all of her support. County Auditor David Michael for carrying the load in the Highland area, getting out signs and walking in parades with us. Circuit Clerk Tom McRae for his wisdom and guidance and late nights helping out. Ryan Cunningham did an incredible job with our digital campaign. Justin Falloon shot some great videos (even though I didn’t give him much to work with!). County Board Members Eric Foster, Stacey Pace, Bobby Ross, Mike Walters, Mike Babcock, Jamie Goggin & Bill Meyer for all of their help whether it be getting out signs, walking in parades, knocking on doors, etc. Lots of Republican Precinct Committeemen who went the extra mile...There are many others to thank, too numerous to list."  

In a letter to the editor in RiverBender, Rep. Amy Elik (R-Alton) endorsed Slusser. She said that Slusser is “ethical, honest, and sincere.” Elik touted Slusser’s record as treasurer, emphasizing that Madison County’s assets portfolio is one of the top performers in the state. She also touted his work in the community.

Former Madison County Administrator Doug Hulme challenged Slusser in the Republican primary. Hulme touted his experience serving as chief deputy treasurer under then-treasurer Kurt Prenzler until Prenzler became County Board Chairman in 2016. Then Hulme served as County Administrator under Prenzler. On April 16, 2020, Hulme and county IT director Rob Dorman were fired by the county board following a two-year corruption investigation focused their alleged spying on internal emails and data. Hulme blames Slusser for his firing because Slusser coordinated with former State’s Attorney Tom Gibbons in the investigation. Slusser also testified against Hulme before a grand jury in 2017 and wore a wire in a 2018 conversation with Hulme. Hulme says he did nothing wrong while Slusser touted this incident as part of his anti-corruption agenda, Madison - St. Clair Record reported.

A judge dismissed wrongful termination lawsuits filed by Doug Hulme against the Madison County Board for his 2020 firing. This decision came a day after Hulme launched an attack against Slusser, ahead of the primary. Hulme said that Slusser helped organize a Black Lives Matter March in 2020; Slusser denied the allegation. Hulme also criticized Slusser’s supposed ties with the Madison/Venice NAACP leader. Slusser said he wants to build “authentic relationships” with the black community. In the wake of Hulme’s comments, precinct committeeman Douglas Dial of Glen Carbon called for Hulme to suspend his campaign. Hulme planned to appeal the dismissal of his wrongful termination suit.