Montee was an early supporter of President Obama’s 2008 campaign. (Photo/Boone County Democrats)

— Democrats likely have their candidate to take on Republican State House Speaker Steven Tilley in the 2012 Lt. Governor’s race.

Susan Montee, former State Auditor and current Chairwoman of the Missouri Democratic Party, has sent paperwork to the Missouri Ethics Commission this week that will allow her to begin raising money for her campaign, confirm multiple Show-Me State Democrats.

“She is to announce soon,” said one Democrat with knowledge of Montee’s plans.

Democrats don’t know, however, who will replace her as Chair of the MDP, a vital position in an important electoral year for Democrats across Missouri and the nation.

Tilley, a Perry Republican, will have a significant fundraising advantage to Montee, having started his campaign earlier this summer.