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Hoskins wins Speaker Pro Tem role in caucus election

ST. LOUIS — Rep. Denny Hoskins, R-Warrensburg, was selected as the official nominee for the Speaker Pro Tem role Friday evening at the majority caucus meeting in St. Louis.

While officially Hoskins has secured the nomination that still has to be approved by the entire House during veto session, taking the nomination is taking the win as he has no further competition.

Hoskins was pitted against Rep. Jeanie Riddle, R-Fulton, in the Pro Tem race. Riddle’s opportunities to campaign were limited during the final few weeks after her brother passed away and family obligations had to become priority.

The Pro Tem position is only recently vacant and available after Jason Smith was elected to Congress in a June special election. Prior to Smith’s actual election, Hoskins has announced intent to run for the leadership position.

“I really want to help the caucus more and be a voice for the entire body,” Hoskins said Friday night. “One of the reasons I was elected [to the House] is because I’m not afraid to speak my mind and make decisions that are right for the people, and I will keep doing that.”

Hoskins’ role is effective immediately within the majority caucus and likely will become official during veto session for the entire House.

Riddle couldn’t be reached for comment Friday evening.