Former lawmaker enters Republican race for Mo. lieutenant governor

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Former Republican House member Jack Jackson says he is running for lieutenant governor.

Jackson is from suburban St. Louis and is a retired Marine Corps pilot. In 2006, he lost in a crowded primary for state auditor.

He formally announced his candidacy Friday and plans to set up his campaign committee Monday.

Jackson says he didn't plan to run for anything until Gov. Matt Blunt's decision earlier this week not to seek re-election. Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder has said he plans to run for governor rather than re-election.

Jackson says the delayed start means that a bid for statewide office has become a sprint rather than a marathon.

Democratic House member Sam Page also is running for lieutenant governor.