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Several options to serve as Auditor

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – As the political world begins to move forward after the tragic death of State Auditor Tom Schweich, there is a lengthy list of potential candidates Governor Nixon could chose to fill the term, which runs through 2018. Nixon’s former Chief of Staff, John Watson, is currently in the role as a placeholder while other options are weighed.

 

Former State Senator Victor Callahan

If the Governor is looking for someone who could win in 2018 Callahan has to be a top choice. A moderate senator who is a skilled campaigner, and most importantly, will have a three-quarters of a million dollar head start on a potential Republican opponent. 2018 will be an off-year election, where Republicans have been cleaning house, so it will take a good candidate to hold the office. Also of note, if Callahan is selected, the Governor would also have a seat he could fill on the Tax Commission, a seat that could be filled by a member of either party.

 

Former State Representative Jeff Harris

Harris is a member of the Governor’s inner circle and would be someone who would continue on his legacy. He would be more than able to do the job well, and has run statewide before, an unsuccessful bid for attorney general in 2008. Many see him as the leading candidate for the job; if not, its widely speculated he will be wearing a judge’s robe before 2016.

 

St. Louis City Treasurer Tishaura Jones

She is a rising star in Democratic politics whose talent seems to exceed her current post, and it goes without saying the Governor could use more friends in the African-American community. She has experience in a financial position and is a former state representative. However, many view her as next in line for mayor of St. Louis when Mayor Slay chooses to retire.

 

State Treasurer Clint Zweifel

He would be a great choice for the same reasons he made an appealing candidate for treasurer, but seems to be ready to move on to the next phase of his life. He has won statewide twice, and is more than qualified, but would many are doubting his desire to serve as a longtime statewide office holder.

 

Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney Jean Peters-Baker

She has announced she isn’t running for attorney general, but it would be hard to pass up a statewide office. She would be a formidable candidate to hold the office, and many Democrats would like to see a woman elected to the executive branch.

 

Other potentials candidates:

Senator Scott Sifton

He has given no indication he is looking to be anything except attorney general, but it hasn’t stopped speculation that Democrats will look to shift Sifton away from the AG primary.

 

Interim State Auditor John Watson

He isn’t likely interested, but after a few weeks he may find he enjoys the job and stays on.

 

Senator Jason Holsman

It is probably not the right time and he is a valuable senator for Democrats, but he is clearly interested in a higher office.

 

Director of the Department of Labor Ryan McKenna

He hasn’t shown any interest, but would be a good candidate to hold the office with a moderate background and time as a department director.

 

Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders

He has floated his name for every office from U.S. Senate to Butler County Circuit Clerk and now many have developed a “we’ll believe it when we see it” attitude to him leaving Jackson County.