Bearden, second-ranking Mo. House member, resigns

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The No. 2 ranking official in the Missouri House is resigning.

Republican Rep. Carl Bearden, of St. Charles, says he is leaving the Legislature for a job in the private sector.

Bearden has served in the House since 2001. He spent two years as chairman of the House Budget Committee, and has served since 2005 as House speaker pro tem.

House members will elect a replacement for Bearden's leadership position. Gov. Matt Blunt is expected to call a special election to pick Bearden's successor in the 16th House District.