Former Missouri Sen. Kit Bond has endorsed Rep. Vicky Hartzler in the Republican primary.
“Missourians deserve a senator who knows how to get things done,” he said. “Vicky has shown during her time in public office that she is a fighter for our armed forces and a fighter for Missouri families. That’s why she has my full confidence and endorsement to be the next U.S. senator from Missouri.”
The news of Bond’s endorsement comes on the heels of the first poll showing Hartzler in the lead over former Gov. Eric Greitens. The Greitens campaign was rocked last month by allegations of domestic violence and child abuse by former first lady Sheena Greitens.
Bond served four terms in the U.S. Senate after serving as governor. He was first elected as governor in 1972 at the age of 33, making him the youngest governor in Missouri history.
“I’m incredibly honored to have the support and confidence of Sen. Bond,” Hartzler said. “He’s been a champion for our state and the hardworking people who call Missouri home for decades. forging a legacy of getting things done and standing for what is right. Our campaign is about saving the heart and soul of this country, and it’s a blessing to have Kit partner with me in this fight.”
Republicans are split on their choice to replace GOP Sen. Roy Blunt, who is retiring after two terms. One potential 2024 presidential contender, Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri, has endorsed U.S. Rep. Vicky Hartzler. Another possible White House hopeful, Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, has backed Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt.
READ: Ted Cruz challenges churches to fight for the culture
Others haven’t made an endorsement at all, including Blunt, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Gov. Mike Parson. Most importantly, neither has former President Donald Trump, who won the state over Democrat Joe Biden by 15 percentage points in 2020. Missouri Republican Party Chair Nick Myers said the party will not endorse a candidate for the Aug. 2 primary.
–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice
