WASHINGTON (AP) – Republicans have long considered Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill of Missouri one of their top targets in the Senate this year. They just didn’t know who her opponent would be.
GOP voters will decide among three contenders in the marquee contest in Tuesday’s state primaries. Three other states – Washington, Michigan and Kansas – also are having elections.
No clear favorite has emerged in Missouri’s Republican primary race, which will set up one of November’s most anticipated Senate contests.
All three Republicans have cast themselves as the best conservative alternative to McCaskill, who is seeking re-election for the first time since winning her seat in 2006.
The Republicans are Sarah Palin-backed Sarah Steelman, businessman John Brunner and Missouri Congressman Todd Akin, who has been endorsed by former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee.
