Kinder raising funds for statewide run

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Senate President Pro Tem Peter Kinder recently formed an exploratory committee to collect contributions for a possible run for either attorney general or lieutenant governor in 2004.

Kinder, R-Cape Girardeau, said Wednesday that those are the only two offices he is considering, though he has not committed to seeking either. He declined to elaborate on how strong the chances are his name will be on the statewide ballot next year.

"I'm not ready to assign a percentage," Kinder said.

The three-term senator established the Missourians for Kinder campaign committee last month. Forming a committee is a necessary first step toward running for office.

Kinder was considered a possible Republican contender for challenging Democratic Gov. Bob Holden, but he decided in December against a gubernatorial bid. Secretary of State Matt Blunt likely will be the GOP nominee in that race.

Democrats currently hold both offices Kinder is considering.

Attorney General Jay Nixon was first elected to his post in 1992 and has indicated he will seek a fourth term.

Lt. Gov. Joe Maxwell served in the Senate with Kinder for several years prior to winning his current office in 2000. A spokeswoman for Maxwell said he has not decided whether to run for a second term and will hold off announcing his political plans until after the legislative session ends on May 16.

Kinder was first elected to the Senate in 1992 and has served as its leader since Republicans claimed a chamber majority from Democrats in 2001. Legislative term limits prevent him from seeking re-election to the seat, which represents six Southeast Missouri counties.

mpowers@semissourian.com

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