Missouri will have its first Republican Governor since John Ashcroft. Matt Blunt has won a close election victory over Democrat Claire McCaskill. Missouri’s Governor-elect is reitterating his election campaign vow to work to improve education throughout the state. Speaking to reporters following his victory speech, Blunt made it clear education will be a top priority … as will his intention to do something Governor Bob Holden refused to do – sign a litigation reform bill. As for his phone conversation with State Auditor Claire McCaskill, during which she conceded the victory, Blunt says she was gracious in defeat. Blunt, who will be sworn in in January, is 33 – the second youngest Governor in Missouri’s history, behind Christopher Bond. He will be only the fourth Secretary of State to serve as Governor.