Grogan wins third term as DuPage auditor

Bob Grogan has secured a third term as DuPage County auditor by defeating Democratic challenger Michelle Gale.

Grogan received about 53.4 percent of the unofficial vote totals, with all 869 precincts unofficially reporting Tuesday. Grogan had 209,973 votes while Gale had 182,867 votes.

"It's been an interesting cycle," said Grogan, adding that he enjoyed meeting with residents during the campaign and talking to them about his job. "I'm looking forward to serving the people of DuPage County for four more years."

During the race, both auditor candidates tried to make the case for why their opponent shouldn't serve in the position, which evaluates and reports on county operations.

Grogan of Downers Grove said he's highly qualified for the post he's held since 2008. He said that looking out for fraud, waste and abuse in county government is "a skill position."

As a CPA and certified fraud examiner, Grogan said he's been doing auditing work for a long time and has experience in both the private sector and in government. He said has audited government entities, pension plans and nonprofits.

Still, Gale argued that DuPage's GOP-dominated county government shouldn't have a Republican auditing it. She said she believes Grogan is too political.

Grogan is chairman of the Downers Grove Township Republican Organization. But he said he follows professional standards. He said his political involvement has no influence on his role as auditor.