~ Local state representatives all file for re-election.
A Democrat filed Tuesday to challenge House Speaker Rod Jetton, who also filed for re-election.
Michael Winder of Marquand, Mo., filed his paperwork for the 156th District seat in the Missouri House Tuesday at the Missouri secretary of state's office in Jefferson City, Mo.
Three incumbents looking for their second terms also filed. Nathan Cooper of Cape Gir-ardeau, Scott Lipke of Jackson and Billy Pat Wright of Dexter, Mo., all filed for re-election to their second terms. All three are Republicans. Cooper represents the 158th District, which includes most of the city of Cape Girardeau. Lipke's 157th District includes northern Cape Girardeau County and most of Perry County and Wright, in the 159th District, represents most of Stoddard and southwestern Cape Gir-ardeau counties.
Two candidates filed for seats that will be vacated as a result of term limits. Steve Hodges of East Prairie, a Democrat, filed for the 161st District seat currently held by Republican Lanie Black. Gary Branum of New Madrid filed on the Republican ticket.
And Ellen Brandom of Sikeston, Mo., a Republican, filed for the 160th District seat that Rep. Peter Myers Sr., R-Sikeston, must give up.
The 161st District includes Scott City, eastern Scott County as well as Mississippi and northern New Madrid counties. The 160th District consists of western Scott County, including Sikeston and a small portion of Cape Girardeau County.
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