Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft is not going to run for re-election, he said this weekend — but he stopped short of announcing a bid for another office.
Ashcroft, the Republican statewide official, discussed what’s next during Sunday’s episode of “This Week in Missouri Politics.” He’s been considered to be a potential candidate for governor in 2024.
“I’m not going to run for re-election of secretary of state,” Ashcroft said. “I think it’s good to have new blood. I don’t want to start thinking this is my place as opposed to the people’s place.”
He added it wasn’t time to announce a new venture with the high-profile election to replace Senator Roy Blunt later this year.
“I don’t think it’s the right time to announce it, and making a decision is very different than the time from when you make an announcement,” Ashcroft said.
Ashcroft reported more than $537,000 cash on hand in the latest round of filings after bringing in nearly $222,000 this cycle.
The Liberty PAC, which supports Ashcroft, has more than $944,000 cash on hand.
Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, who has already announced a gubernatorial bid, ended the latest quarter with more than $467,000 cash on hand after bringing in more than $585,000 this cycle.
The American Dream PAC, which supports Kehoe, reported more than $973,000 cash on hand.
Kehoe announced his candidacy last year.
Watch more of Ashcroft’s interview on “This Week in Missouri Politics” here.
