By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO. – State Auditor Claire McCaskill says she won't issue an endorsement in next year's election to fill her job.
The two-term Democratic auditor is skipping a 2006 bid for re-election. She'll run instead for the Democratic nomination to challenge Republican U.S. Senator Jim Talent.
Buchanan County Auditor Susan Montee is the only Democrat committed so far to running for McCaskill's current post. Montee supported McCaskill's failed bid for governor last year.
Other Democrats considering the auditor's race are state Senator Maida Coleman and former House member Jason Klumb.
On the Republican side, two lawmakers from suburban St. Louis have said they're running for auditor. They are House member Jack Jackson of Wildwood, and Senator John Loudon of Ballwin.