The Missouri Democratic Party congratulates the over 200 Democratic candidates across the state who stepped up to run for office in their communities and the incredible recruitment effort organized to support them. 

“We are unbelievably proud and excited to see so many strong Democratic candidates decide to run for office and serve their neighbors. Running for office is tough and often thankless, but these Missourians are determined to help leave their communities better than they found them. The dramatic increase in Democratic candidates this election cycle could not have been possible without the tireless organizing and recruitment efforts led by the leadership of the Missouri State House and Senate Democrats, who have committed to investing in building party infrastructure to support candidates across the state,” said Missouri Democratic Party Chair Russ Carnahan. 

“Ensuring there is a Democratic candidate on the ballot in districts across Missouri does not happen overnight and requires investing in a strong staff, like our incredible Field Director Alex Johnson, who fielded over 6,000 calls to potential candidates across the state to fill seats until candidate filing officially closed. MO House Democrats have made investing in this kind of infrastructure that operates year-round, not just close to an election, supporting candidates and helping them run professional campaigns, a core piece of our rebuilding strategy and we are thrilled to see it begin to pay off. Democrats are fired up and ready to break the Republican supermajority on our way to take back our state,” added House Democratic Leader Crystal Quade.

Background:

Missouri Democrats’ recruitment efforts earned national attention and recognition by DNC Chairman Jaime Harrison, who has included Missouri on his short- list to receive a candidate recruitment challenge grant.

By the Numbers:

- 100% of Statewide and Congressional seats filled with candidates

- 88% (15 of 17) of State Senate seats filled with candidates

- 83% (135 of 163) of State House seats filled with candidates, an increase from 97 candidates in 2022.

- Represents the best presidential year recruiting number since 2008