Political tension remains high at the State Capitol as Governor Bob Holden sticks by a decision on redistricting – a decision that has infuriated House Republicans. The GOP nominated Representative Mark Richardson of and David Berklage for southeast Missouri. When questions arose over whether a representative could serve on the legislative redistricting commissions, Richardson withdrew his name. But Holden appointed him, anyway. Holden suspects Republicans knew Richardson could not serve and nominated him in an attempt to force the choice of Barklage – something the Governor finds unacceptable.
