Republicans Avoid Primary Fight Over Race For Secretary of State

Republicans have avoided a high-profile primary election for Secretary of State next year. Senator Sarah Steelman of Rolla has decided not to challenge House Speaker Catherine Hanaway of Warson Woods. Steelman will run for Treasurer, instead. The likely Democrat candidate for the Secretary of State job is Robin Carnahan, the daughter of Mel and Jean Carnahan. Former House Minority Leader Mark Abel plans to seek the Democrat nomination for State Treasurer. Republican Secretary of State Matt Blunt is expected to announce he’s running for Governor.