A state lawmaker from Cameron says he plans to run for the GOP nomination for governor in 2020.
Rep. Jim Neely, a 68-year-old physician, said Wednesday he will challenge Gov. Mike Parson in the Republican primary.
Parson, who became governor in June 2018 after Eric Greitens resigned, is expected to announce his candidacy on Sept. 8.
Reports say that Neely is term limited after eight years in the House. He said he is running because he wants to continue public service, not because of any specific objections to Parson.
Neely says he was not asked to run. He has shown no fundraising activity in the three months ending July 1.
Auditor Nicole Galloway, a Democrat, has also announced her bid for the governorship.
