Eastern Missouri state senator withdraws bid for re-election

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- A state senator from eastern Missouri is forgoing a re-election bid, potentially setting off a scramble among Republicans vying to replace him in the reliably GOP district.

Republican Sen. Brian Nieves of Washington withdrew Thursday after initially filing for re-election.

One candidate, House Republican Dave Schatz of Sullivan, had already filed to challenge Nieves. But with Nieves' exit, Republican House Speaker Tim Jones of Eureka is now also considering a run.

Jones said he will take time next week to weigh his options. Nieves did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A potential primary could be an expensive contest. Schatz loaned his campaign $350,000, and Jones reports having $900,000 in his campaign account.

The Senate district includes Franklin County and parts of western St. Louis County.