Several Mo. statewide races remain close

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Candidates for some statewide offices in Missouri found themselves in close races three hours after the polls closed.

Republican Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder and Democratic Attorney General Chris Koster both held narrow leads over their main challengers Tuesday night.

In the race for state treasurer, Democratic incumbent Clint Zweifel (ZWY'-ful) was roughly even with his Republican challenger, state House member Cole McNary.

The race for secretary of state was wide open because Democratic incumbent Robin Carnahan decided against seeking a third term. Republican Shane Schoeller (SHOH'-lur) was leading Democrat Jason Kander three hours after the close of polls.