SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) - State Sen. Bob Dixon has announced he's running for Missouri governor in 2016.
The Republican touted his Christian faith and conservative views during a Monday announcement on the front porch of his Springfield home.
Dixon is the fifth Republican to announce plans to run for the office, meaning candidates likely will face a crowded primary to snag the GOP nomination.
Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon cannot seek re-election because of term limits. Attorney General Chris Koster is the only Democrat in the running.
Dixon first was elected to the Senate in 2010 and chairs a Senate committee on criminal justice. He previously served in the House for eight years.
Dixon says he is focused on improving the economy, ensuring local control in education and protecting "traditional Missouri values."
© Associated Press
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Wanted felon arrested in Hiawatha
St. Joseph teacher arrested for student sex crimes
Revised flood predictions along the MO River
Holton woman killed in Jackson Co car-deer accident
Valuation change notices coming soon for Nebraska residents
Lancaster shooting, threats, land man in jail
Ozawkie man facing multiple child sex charges
Case dismissed in charity fraud allegations
Public health advisory issued for local lake
Sabetha man arrested on drug charges
Three injured in Thursday Jeff Co collision
4th candidate files for local KS House seat
Atchison Police probe car wash thefts
KHP pursuit ends in Jackson Co
Jeff Co North USD 339 bond issue defeated
Atchison Co's Laurie seeks another term as Sheriff
Atchison's Amelia fireworks voted 3rd in nation
Former KS AG files for Congress
LATEST STORIES
Holton woman killed in Jackson Co car-deer accident
Atchison Co vets to honor comrades Monday
Richardson County Board receives organization updates
Only minor flooding continues along Missouri River
Three injured in Thursday Jeff Co collision
Atchison Police probe car wash thefts
KS DCF provides dollars for youth lunch