It’s amazing how attractive a Congressional district becomes when the incumbent decides to run for governor. A crowded field of Democrats wants to succeed 9th District Republican Congressman Kenny Hulshof.
State Representative Judy Baker of Columbia got in first, but doesn’t mind the competition,"I think a good strong primary for our party is probably a good thing."
Baker says she got in the race before Hulshof got out, because she disagreed with his voting record and believed it was out of touch with the district. Others made their move after Hulshof made his.
Former State Senator Ken Jacob of Columbia is trying to make a political comeback after losing the Democratic primary four years ago for Lt. Governor. Jacob says he has been waiting for 25 years to run for the seat. He is expected to file soon.
"Either party can win it," Jacob tells the Missourinet, "It’s a matter of the candidate that we put forward."
Agreeing is former House Speaker Steve Gaw, who grew up in Moberly, "I can tell you there are a lot of people out there who are less concerned about labels, what political party you may belong to, than they are about whether you share their values."
Marion County Presiding Commissioner Lyndon Bode of Palmyra predicts an old fashioned race will win, "I think the key is our grassroots support," says Bodes,
"Where we’re knocking on doors and just getting out in community squares, and meeting and talking to the people."
It’s likely five Republicans will have filed by the time candidate filing closes at 5pm Tuesday, March 25 th .
Missouri Secretary of State Web page .