Saint Louis, Mo. — In the nine days since Sen. Eric Schmitt formally announced his plans to run for State Treasurer in 2016, he’s raised more than $350k, and now has a campaign coffer well in excess of $1 million. Schmitt’s announcement marked the first announcement for office in 2016 that isn’t Governor or Attorney General. Strategists, donors and politicians alike are hoping that strong support for Schmitt is an indicator of a newfound effort by Republicans to recapture statewide offices in Missouri.
Despite holding huge majorities in both the House and Senate, Republicans do not control the governor’s office. Lt. Governor Peter Kinder and State Auditor Tom Schweich are their only statewide elected officials, something party leaders say has to change.
“I’ve been honored by the outpouring of support,” Schmitt said. “To run an effective campaign you need resources so you can have that conversation with the voter, and you need to show people you have support.”
Schmitt’s support was cemented almost immediately after his announcement. Donors quick to send Schmitt a check included former Republican gubernatorial candidate, Dave Spence, former Republican House Speaker Steve Tilley and conservative mega-donor, Rex Sinquefield. Schmitt was long rumored to be weighing a statewide run. In fact, Schmitt’s name is one mentioned in many Republican circles when the party’s future across the state comes up.
“Clearly donors and grassroots leaders see Senator Schmitt as an extremely talented and rising star in Missouri politics,” Republican consultant Miles Ross said. “They appreciate the fact that he made a very thoughtful decision to help the 2016 ticket and avoid a bloody Primary. The Democrats are going to be smart about 2016, and so do we. Donors are showing that same logic by reinforcing Senator Schmitt’s war chest in a dramatic fashion. I would say $400k in a week is a clear statement: we have our pick.”
Schmitt, an attorney, was encouraged by some within his own party to throw his hat into a number of races in 2016, and is a clear candidate to watch to future election cycles. But with 2016 primaries already crowding up and Schmitt’s own personal interest in tax policy, treasurer presented itself as the right fit. “I looked at what I’ve focused on in my legislative career,” Schmitt said. “Economic policy and tax issues are the things I’ve focused a lot on, and I think it’s a natural progression to continue to serve and be an advocate for taxpayers to look at the Treasurer’s office.”
Collin Reischman was the Managing Editor for The Missouri Times, and a graduate of Webster University with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.
