Missouri Republicans have gathered in Frontenac in St. Louis County this weekend for the party’s annual Lincoln Days festivities – a chance to eat, drink, socialize, and to talk politics. A big name guest speaks at the annual Lincoln Days dinner this evening – former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney , who is considering running for the White House.

Missouri Republican Party Chairman Doug Russell says this interest in the state being shown by Romney can only help him with the grassroots supporters here.  He adds the importance of this state in the overall national poltical picture will be seen with what he expects to be a parade of presidential candidates – Democrats and Republicans – visiting the Show-Me State over the next year or so.

Russell acknowledges that while the party is pleased it still holds large majorities in both chambers of the General Assembly, it is unhappy with the loss of Jim Talent’s U.S. Senate seat. He says some the party has identified some areas of concern that need to be worked on … but he would not disclose what those areas are.

Download/Listen: Missouri Republican Party Chairman Doug Russell (:30 MP3)