The amount of money spent in Missouri by the presidential campaigns could impact the lower profile races on this year’s ballot. Those running for various offices often hope to benefit from appearances – in person and in the media – made by popular presidential candidates. The Kerry for President Campaign recently announced it’s cutting back on advertising in Missouri. Missouri Campaign Director Michael Golden says advertising is important but the reduction shouldn’t hurt the candidates lower down on the ballot. Ann Wagner, Chair of the Missouri Republican Party and Co-Chair of the Republican National Committee, says GOP candidates like gubernatorial contender Matt Blunt benefit from presidential appearances and ads and are certainly hoping to be aided by President Bush’s coattails. Republicans say the Kerry cutback means the Kerry Campaign has given up on this state.
