The Missouri House has approved a bill that would move the state’s primary elections for Congress, the state legislature and statewide elected offices to June. The proposal now goes to the Senate.
Supporters say the change would allow more time for candidates to raise money ahead of general elections. Opponents argued it was purely political and would cause more campaigning to take place while lawmakers are still at work during legislative session.
The proposal passed only after Republicans convinced many members to switch their votes. It had been failing 60-89 at one point before turning around to the final 84-67 vote. At least 82 votes are needed to pass legislation out of the House.
