Missouri’s House Speaker says he will not run for election to statewide office in two years.
House Speaker Tim Jones watches debate in the House during the veto session September 10, 2014. (photo courtesy; Tim Bommel, Missouri House Communications)
Tim Jones had expressed an interest in recent months at a run either for Attorney General or for Lieutenant Governor. He now says after speaking with his family and closest friends and praying for guidance, he has decided to take time away from public office, but says he is keeping his options open for 2018 or thereafter.
“My daughters are growing up fast, and if I were to campaign for another two years as I have done for the past fifteen, that would be two more years I could not replace,” Jones writes in a statement released this morning.
At the same time, Jones announced he has accepted a position of Senior Policy Fellow with the Hammond Institute at Lindenwood University.
He writes the position will let him “continue working to promote the conservative ideals that are so key to rebuilding our state and nation.”
Jones says he is close to “finalizing additional exciting opportunities that I will announce in the near future,” and adds, “As I plan to continue my public service in the future, I am keeping all options open for 2018 and beyond to serve our state and our nation.”
According to the state Ethics Commission, Jones’ campaign committee, Missourians for Tim Jones, had more than $993-thousand on hand before Tuesday’s election.