LOCAL REPUBLICANS ENDORSE HANCOCK OVER CAPE'S COOK

Several local Republicans politely endorsed John Hancock as Missouri's next secretary of state, treading lightly on the stomping grounds of the current secretary, Bekki Cook, a Democrat.

"We're not here to say anything bad about Bekki Cook," said Sen. Peter Kinder, R-Cape Girardeau. "We're here to say positive things about John Hancock and leave it at that."

In addition to Kinder, Reps. David Schwab, R-Jackson, and Mark Richardson, R-Poplar Bluff, also expressed support for the St. Louis businessman.

"He's a man who has always shown exceptional leadership abilities," Schwab said, adding that he has a conservative, well-thought-out approach to dealing with issues.

House minority leader Richardson said Hancock had "unimpeachable integrity" whom he "wholeheartedly supported" for secretary of state.

Kinder, Schwab and Richardson shared the stage with other local GOP leaders including Cape Girardeau County officials Harold Kuehle, county clerk; Weldon Macke, county treasurer; John Ferguson, public administrator; and John Jordan, sheriff.

Richardson said Cook might be a good voice for local interests, but urged support for Hancock, saying he is a candidate mindful of state issues.

Hancock also spoke at the lectern Tuesday but didn't condemn Cook's accomplishments since her appointment to the position in December. The 31-year-old businessman even applauded her efforts in the securities division of the office, but said he would like to improve on areas that encourage small business growth and elections participation.

"I would also like to restore some of that excellence the office has lost in recent months," he said.

The juxtaposition of the endorsement was a little more than 24 hours before a large reception honoring Cook contributors from Southeast Missouri. More than 300 people are expected tonight at Dr. William LaFoe's home in Cape Girardeau for a social gathering with the secretary of state.

Cook said Tuesday she understands why some of her longtime Republican friends were endorsing Hancock.

"I have a broad-based bipartisan support," she said. "They are in a bind right now, and I recognize that my Republican friends need to participate in the needs of their political party."

She said no hard feelings existed between her and the friends that endorsed Hancock.

"Politics is politics," she said.