Conservatives Rise In Missouri Primary

Missouri has steadily tipped red since 2008 and nothing could demonstrate this better than tonight’s primary. Voter turnout was up several points from the ’08 primary and most of grassroots’ preferred candidates swept the primaries. 

In the Missouri Senate, Todd Akin shut out John Brunner and Sarah Steelman to face Claire McCaskill in November. If the primary Akin shows up to the general election, McCaskill faces a harder battle than anyone imagined. McCaskill trailed all three primary candidates leading up to the primary; that can’t bode well for her reelection.

In Missouri’s 2nd congressional district, Ann Wagner coasted to an easy victory. Wagner for years has been behind the scenes and was instrumental in turning Missouri red in 2004. She raised money for candidates like Ed Martin, before herself running for office. 

In Missouri’s 1st congressional district, the Clay family dynasty ended the Carnahan family dynasty when Lacy Clay stomped Russ Carnahan in the Democratic primary. Clay will face off against Republican Robin Hamlin who edged out Martin Baker in the primary. Watch for grassroots Baker in future Missouri politics. 

In the Republican primary for lieutenant governor Peter Kinder beat Brad Lager. Kinder has enjoyed grassroots support for years and has been one of the most vocal Republicans concerning urban outreach. He filed the first lawsuit against Obamacare and has been working to stop Joplin voters from November disenfranchisement. 

Dave Spence won over Bill Randles in the Republican primary to challenge Democrat Jay Nixon, who received less votes than Spence. In fact, Democrat turnout was miserably low this primary while projected at 26% for GOP, up from 18% in 2008, still paltry, but improving. 

Missouri continues the trend of leaning conservative and the state’s many grassroots groups will continue the work for November. Full results here.