GOP's Talent Enters Mo. Gov Race
Republican Rep. Jim Talent made it official on Monday: He's giving up his seat in the U.S. House to run for governor of Missouri in 2000.
"What we need is a state government that lives up to the potential of the state," Talent said. "And that's what we do not have."
In a 15-minute news conference, Talent stressed lower taxes, stronger education and better roads.
The 42-year-old lawmaker announced his intentions at Vatterott College, a privately funded institution that trains adults for better-paying technological jobs.
Talent, who is in his fourth term, is the overwhelming choice of GOP leaders.
"He's a winner," said Ann Wagner, chairwoman of the Missouri Republican Party. "Missouri needs Jim Talent to come back and take over the reins in Jefferson City."
Talent has been calling activists who can help organize and raise money, said Lloyd Smith, a longtime activist in state politics and a top aide to U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson, R-Mo.
On the other ticket, leading Missouri Democrats are solidly backing state Treasurer Bob Holden. In a faxed statement Monday, Holden urged Talent to abide by Missouri's campaign contribution limits, an issue currently pending before the U.S. Supreme Court.
"Missouri voters were clear in their desire for limits on campaign contributions," Holden said. "I intend to continue to abide by those limits as long as Congressman Talent agrees to do the same."
Talent was elected to the House in 1992. He chairs the Small Business Committee. House Majority Leader Dick Armey of Texas chose Talent last month as one of two top lieutenants, giving him the newly created title of assistant majority leader.
Talent's name also came up during discussions of who would succeed Newt Gingrich as House Speaker, but he chose not to seek the post.
Talent served eight years in the Missouri House, the last four as minority leader.
The Missouri Republican Party's executive committee voted in January to urge Talent to run for governor.
Missouri Democrats describe Talent's tenure in Congress as toeing the Republican party line and say little would change if he were governor.
"It's important to note Jim Talent has consistently aligned himself with the extreme right. I think that's out of step with mainstream Missourians," said Carnahan's spokesman, Chris Sifford.