Republicans in southeastern Missouri have selected their nominee to try and replace Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson.
Missouri House Speaker Pro Tem Jason Smith is the GOP’s chosen candidate to try and retain the 8th Congressional District seat. Emerson represented southeastern Missouri for 17 years but resigned in January to become the CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative
Smith was one of 12 Republicans vying for the nomination. The district’s republican committee selected Smith on Saturday. He says he should be well prepared for the election: “I have foot soldiers in every one of the 30 counties. I have some very good friends who can be my ears and eyes on the ground and making sure wether I need to be at an event in Cape Girardeau or an event in Pemiscot County or an event in Texas County. I already have the groundwork laid, and that’s why we’re going to hit the ground running starting right after this press conference.”
The 32-year old from Salem, Missouri emerged over more seasoned politicians like Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder, former Emerson staffer Lloyd Smith and former state Senator Jason Crowell.
Democrats will select their nominee at a similar meeting on Saturday.
