Wendell Bailey endorses Malek for Treasurer

Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek announced last week that former Missouri State Treasurer Wendell Bailey has endorsed his candidacy for the full term as State Treasurer. The Republican primary election will be held on Tuesday, August 6.

 

"I am so grateful to receive the endorsement of former State Treasurer Wendell Bailey.  I appreciate his continuing friendship as well as his support to continue as State Treasurer," said Treasurer Malek.  "As State Treasurer, Wendell Bailey was innovative, ingenious and creative.  He understood that the State Treasurer's Office offered endless possibilities to make Missouri a better place."

 

"Vivek reached out to discuss my experience in office, where he made clear that his top priority was to give back to Missourians.  He has undoubtedly delivered on this goal", said Treasurer Bailey.  "During my time as the 41st Treasurer of Missouri, I created the MO BUCK$ program to support small businesses and farmers with low-interest loans.  His successful efforts to grow and promote the MO BUCK$ demonstrate his commitment to serving all Missourians.  Vivek's vision and leadership are just what Missouri needs".

 

Wendell Bailey worked in the family business, an automobile agency in Willow Springs.  He was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives for four terms and in 1980 he was elected to the United States House of Representative.  He was first elected Missouri State Treasurer in 1984 and was reelected in 1988.  He is the only Republican to be reelected as State Treasurer in the history of Missouri.  During his tenure, Wendell Bailey established the MO BUCK$ program, a low interest loan program primarily for farmers and small business owners.

 

Vivek Malek was sworn in as Missouri's 48 State Treasurer on January 17, 2023, the latest chapter in his inspiring American story.  Born in Rohtak, India, he earned bachelors and law degrees in India before coming to Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) in Cape Girardeau for a master of business administration (MBA) degree.  Arriving in Missouri on August 11, 2001, after the first plane trip of his life, he had two suitcases and $300 in his pocket.  He was immediately welcomed into the community, and Vivek fell in love with Missouri.