Bob Dixon steps down from governor's race

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- State Sen. Bob Dixon no longer is running for Missouri governor in 2016.

The Springfield News-Leader reported the Republican from Springfield said Monday he's dropping out of the race.

Dixon's departure narrows the expected Republican primary to four candidates: suburban St. Louis businessman John Brunner, former Navy SEAL officer Eric Greitens, former House Speaker Catherine Hanaway and Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder.

Only Democratic Attorney General Chris Koster has said he plans to run for the state's top executive office. Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon is barred from seeking re-election because of term limits.

Dixon thanked his wife and supporters but did not give a reason for dropping out of the race.