Updated 5:02 p.m. with statement from the Missouri Democratic Party.
Update: 3:22 p.m.: Mo. State Rep. Jason Kander, D-Kansas City has announced he will be a candidate for the position via an announcement on his website. Here's an excerpt:
“I am the son of a cop and a juvenile probation officer. I am the husband of a small business owner. I am the product of an extended family of foster brothers. I am a veteran of the war in Afghanistan. I am running for Secretary of State and I look forward to talking with citizens from across Missouri about my vision for the office.”
Original Story:
Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan has announced that she will not seek a third term in a statement issued Friday afternoon.
In the statement, Carnahan referenced the life led by her father, the late Missouri Governor Mel Carnahan, stating "Dad always thought his experience as a private citizen helped make him a more effective public servant and a better governor."
With that comparison, Carnahan said it is time for her to "return to private life, to gather new ideas and experiences and a fresh perspective."
Near the conclusion of her statement, Carnahan said that she plans "to stay engaged and involved..." and that, for her, doing so could include "running for elected office again."
Carnahan spokesman Roy Temple made no mention of what her private sector options might include.
“There’s still 12, 13, 14 months as Secretary of State to be served, and she has time to evaluate her options after that," Temple said. "She did want to signal what her current plans were, so that others could adjust their plans accordingly.”
Republican state senators Bill Stouffer and Scott Rupp both have already announced their intentions to seek the Mo. Secretary of State post.
Russ Carnahan, Robin's brother and current U.S. Representative for Missouri, had this to say regarding his sister's announcement:
“I’m tremendously proud of my sister Robin’s public service. For seven years, she’s done important work protecting seniors against fraud, cutting red tape for small businesses and ensuring fair elections.” “I encourage Missourians who share Robin’s dedication to working for the people of Missouri to select a candidate who will take up her fight and run. I remain focused on representing the St. Louis region, working to grow the economy and jobs and preparing for reelection in 2012.”
The Missouri Democratic Party released a statement early Friday evening regarding Carnahan's decision:
“Throughout her career, Robin Carnahan has been a dedicated and tireless public servant to the state of Missouri,” said Susan Montee, chairwoman of the Missouri Democratic Party. “Robin has been an incredible advocate for middle class families, promoting fair elections, protecting our seniors and making Missouri a better state for us all. We know Robin will continue to serve Missourians well.” The Missouri Democratic Party is committed to fielding a competitive candidate who will be a strong advocate for Missouri’s families as Secretary of State.
