The Republican field of candidates to replace Roy Blunt in the U.S. Senate in 2022 continues to grow. Rep. Billy Long made it official last week, announcing in an interview on Fox News that he would be a candidate.
Long, 65, is a former auctioneer and radio show host who first was elected to Congress in 2010. He’s joining a crowded field of contenders seeking the Republican nomination. In his interview with Tucker Carlson, he said he is the best candidate to hold onto Blunt’s seat and help his party regain control of the Senate.
“You aren’t going to do anything until you get the Senate back,” he said, “and I’m the guy who can win that Senate seat in Missouri.”
Like every other candidate seeking the GOP nomination, Long is publicly courting former President Trump’s support. “Politico” reported that Long met with Trump on Tuesday afternoon to discuss his candidacy. He also hired former Trump aide Kellyanne Conway as his senior advisor and pollster. Trump won double-digit victories in Missouri twice, and every candidate in the Senate race is competing for his endorsement.
In entering the race, Billy Long joins the popular U.S. Rep. Vicky Hartzler, plus disgraced Gov. Eric Greitens, attorney Mark McCloskey and Attorney General Eric Schmitt. Other than Hartzler, who kicked off her campaign with a traditional rally in her district, each candidate has announced their Senate bid on Fox News.
Long giving up his southwest Missouri seat in Congress is sure to set off yet another crowded GOP primary to replace him. Among those who are thought to be considering the race are state Sen. Eric Burlison, former Blunt aide Joelle Cannon, former House Speaker Elijah Haahr, state Sen. Lincoln Hough and state Sen. Mike Moon.
–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice
