Madison County Board Member Continues Fight to Regain Spot on March Primary Ballot
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 26, 2026
Madison County Board member John Janek is pressing forward with his effort to return to the March 17 primary ballot, announcing that he is seeking review from the 5th District Appellate Court after a county judge allowed an earlier election board ruling to stand.
Janek confirmed Friday that he intends to challenge the decision, though the appellate court.
The dispute stems from a January ruling by Associate Judge Ron Foster, who upheld the Madison County Election Board’s determination that Janek’s nominating paperwork did not meet required standards. The board concluded that several pages of his petitions contained copied notarizations rather than original notarizations, resulting in some of his submitted signatures being thrown out.
Janek, a Republican representing County Board District 21, had planned to appear on the primary ballot in a rematch against former board member Eric Foster, whom he defeated in the 2022 primary. Foster’s own objection to Janek’s paperwork was dismissed, but a separate challenge filed by former board member Art Asadorian, a Democrat, was sustained.
Because the disputed notarizations invalidated multiple petition sheets, Janek was left with far fewer signatures than required to qualify for ballot access.
Janek was not present during the election board hearing and was represented by attorney Thomas Maag.
While the legal process continues, Janek has also taken steps to ensure he remains an option for voters. He has formally registered as a write‑in candidate, a move that would allow him to continue campaigning even if the appellate court does not reverse the lower court’s decision.