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Kraus announces campaign for Secretary of State

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Sen. Will Kraus announced this morning that after the summation of his unopposed race for his second term of state senator, he would be forming a campaign committee for a run for Missouri secretary of state in 2016. The bid comes exactly one week after senate colleague, Sen. Eric Schmitt, announced his intention to run for treasurer in 2016.

“I am encouraged by the support I have received from my family, friends and fellow legislators.  I have thought long and hard about this decision, and prayed with my family to make sure this was the right choice, at the right time,” Kraus said in a statement.  “I believe we need better leadership in the Secretary of State’s office, both for Missouri’s voters and for our small businesses.  I believe I can offer that leadership.”

Sen. Kraus
Sen. Kraus

Kraus formerly served three terms in the state house, followed by a competitive bid for the senate’s 8th district, which covers much of eastern Jackson County.  He is unopposed for his second term.

“Missouri voters want to vote for who will represent their party, not have to spend a whole day sitting in a cramped room only to find their voice isn’t being heard.” Kraus’s statement continued.  “Getting this change done almost two years ahead of the primary ensures voters that their voice will be heard in 2016.”

The announcement touts his experience with election-related laws, businesses, and a desire to work with the county clerks.

“Making sure businesses can organize in Missouri without excessive regulation and a heavy foot on their neck from government agencies should be a primary goal of the Secretary of State,” Kraus’ statement concluded.  “The incumbent has supported very little business reform passed by the General Assembly and has been silent on the governor’s vetoes of bills designed on reigning in an out of control Department of Revenue.”

The statement included support from many legislative colleagues, including the Senate Pro Tem Tom Dempsey, Senate Majority Floor Leader Ron Richard, and Rep. Tony Dugger, R-Hartville.

“Will has been a “go-to” guy in the Senate on election issues.  Not only has he been a leader on election legislation, he also has a great understanding of when the time is right to get things done.  I look forward to seeing what he can accomplish if elected as Secretary of State,” Sen. Tom Dempsey, Senate President Pro Tem said.

“Sen. Kraus has consistently shown an ability to find consensus and compromise, even on the toughest issues.  He is not afraid to take on a difficult task, and I look forward to having him tackle some of the problems facing Missouri voters and businesses as Secretary of State,” Sen. Ron Richard, Majority Floor Leader, said

“Sen. Kraus has been an aggressive leader in the Senate on election issues.  As Secretary of State he will focus on what is best for all Missouri voters while making sure local election officials have the tools they need to increase turnout,”  Rep. Tony Dugger said.

“Will has shown his dedication to service, first as a member of the military, then as an elected official.  His focus on making it easier for military members to vote shows how he will lead if elected.  I know he will serve Missourians well as the next Secretary of State,”  Sen. Doug Libla said.

“Sen. Kraus has consistently fought for the rights of businesses in Missouri, a crucial role the Secretary of State.  He clearly understands that smaller government will lead to a stronger economy.  He is the best person to help make Missouri more business friendly in 2016,”  Sen. Brad Lager said.

“Will has been a great partner on legislation to reduce taxes for all Missourians, including our small business owners.  I look forward to working with him as Secretary of State to reduce the obstacles to starting and running a business,”  Rep. Andrew Koenig said.

“Missouri’s Secretary of State plays a critical role in protecting Missouri voters.  As Secretary of State, Will Kraus will vigilantly defend their rights and freedoms,” former Sen. Bill Stouffer said.

“Sen. Kraus is a man of integrity and compassion.  I have fought with Will to protect our veterans and our active duty military personnel.  I have seen no one work harder than him to protect the rights of our men and women in uniform.  He has been a great asset for Missouri for many years in the legislature and I look forward to him continuing the fight,” said Rep. Charlie Davis.

“Sen. Kraus has proven himself to be a leader who brings interested parties together to find solutions for the problems facing our state.  I look forward to having him as Secretary of State where he will work to protect Missouri voters and businesses with common sense reforms for elections and business regulations,” Sen. Brian Munzlinger said.

“Sen. Kraus has been a great legislator in Eastern Jackson County.  He has consistently worked with fellow legislators and constituents to pass legislation that positively impacts his district and all Missourians.  He will take that same teamwork approach to the Secretary of State’s office,” Rep. Mike Cierpiot said.