Politics & Government

Municipal Judge Candidate 'Withdraws' From Race

Cannot remove name from ballot, but will not campaign for office.

The field of candidates for municipal judge in just got smaller.

Candidate Jay Lenox told the Board of Aldermen that he was not going to campaign for the office. Lenox made the announcement at the board's work session Wednesday.

"I would withdraw if I could, but I can't," Lenox told the board."I'm giving my support to Steve Martin." 

Find out what's happening in Wentzvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

It is too late to remove Lenox's name from the ballot. The election is Tuesday, April 5. 

Lenox, an attorney at Niedner, Bodeux, Carmichael, Huff, Lenox and Pashos in St. Charles, said he entered the race because he didn't like the direction the courts were heading in.

Find out what's happening in Wentzvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"I think the city should have an honest, ethical, fair and impartial judge," he said. 

After reviewing the large field, Lenox said he decided that he didn't want to split the vote. 

"It would be a real shame if neither myself or Steve won," he said. "It would be a disservice to the city, the citizens and the police department for me to stay in and split the vote." 

Lenox said he did not consider himself a candidate and would not go to the expense of campaigning. He also made it clear that he was not pressured to exit the campaign.

Mike Carter, St. Peters, currently serves as the city's judge. He is running for reelection.

Other candidates on the ballot include:

  • Andrew Koor, O'Fallon;
  • Michael Kruse, O'Fallon; and
  • Joel Eisenstein, O'Fallon.

Donna Sherwood, a candidate for the Ward 2 seat being vacated by Peggy Meyer, spoke after Lenox made his announcement to chastise the board of aldermen.

"I think it is totally inappropriate for you to all0w Mr. Lenox to campaign for Mr. Martin," she said. "You need to allow other candidates the same opportunity."

Mayor Paul Lambi noted that Lenox spoke in public forum and Sherwood was allowed to do the same. 

"I didn't prepare remarks or have anyone here," she said. 


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Wentzville