Slama drops out of state treasurer's race 2 days after announcing candidacy

Just two days after announcing her candidacy for the state treasurer’s office, former state Sen. Julie Slama announced Wednesday she is suspending her campaign.

Slama, who served as the District 1 senator for six years, had announced her candidacy for treasurer Monday. Just hours later, however, current Treasurer Tom Briese announced he was resigning, and Gov. Jim Pillen appointed Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg to replace him.

Spellerberg on Monday said he does plan to seek election to the office next year. He, Briese and Slama are all Republicans.

Slama said in a news release that she believes Spellerberg, “will bring the energy and perspective needed in the role of state treasurer.”

“As a result, I am suspending my campaign and am pleased to endorse Joey Spellerberg in his 2026 election,” Slama said in the release. “Too often in our party, primary races turn into expensive and bitter feuds with no upside for voters or for our party. This race will not be one of those circumstances.”

Spellerberg said in a statement that he was "deeply grateful" for the endorsement from Slama.

“Julie has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of conservative leadership in Nebraska. From her leadership in advancing election integrity with the overwhelming passage of the Constitutional Amendment for Voter ID, to her remarkable advocacy for her district during the historic 2019 floods, Julie has set a strong example of effective and principled leadership," he said. "I am confident we will continue working together to bring conservative results to Nebraska.”