The race for the Republican nomination for Missouri governor is changing.
Randy Asbury, a former state representative and deputy director of the Department of Agriculture, has decided to drop out of the race.
“We have no regrets but must bring the campaign to its end,” said Asbury in a statement. Asbury, whose faith was a centerpiece of his campaign, continued, “This is not the end but a new beginning as God takes our efforts of the past few months and moves us into a new direction.”
Even as Asbury drops out of the race, two other Republicans appear ready to at last confirm their candidacy.
Former Navy SEAL Eric Greitens’ campaign says he will make a “major announcement” Saturday in St. Louis. He is expected to announce his candidacy for governor – a race he’s been considered a candidate in for months, down to the “Greitens governor” logo on his website.
From St. Louis he will launch a campaign tour going to Joplin, Springfield, Cape Girardeau, Washington, Lee’s Summit, Columbia, and Kirksville through October 2.
Missourians for John Brunner today said his campaign will make clear his plans on Monday, October 5. Brunner, a businessman and 2012 Republican candidate for
U.S. Senate, has also been considered an unofficial candidate for governor for several months, and launched an exploratory committee in April. He is running on the argument that his background as a manufacturer, CEO, and former Marine separate him from “lifelong politicians or political opportunists.”
Already confirmed candidates for the Republican nod include former Missouri House Speaker and U.S. Attorney Catherine Hanaway, Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder, and state senator Bob Dixon of Springfield.
