Judy Baker

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Four years removed from Missouri electoral politics, former State Representative Judy Baker announced Thursday she will seek the Democratic nomination for Lt. Governor.

Baker, who had been serving in the Obama administration until late last year, enters a primary with former State Auditor and Missouri Democratic Party Chair Susan Montee, and lesser-known former Saline County Commissioner Becky Plattner.

Baker led an unsuccessful campaign for U.S. Congress in 2008, claiming to have received more votes than any Democrat in the district in two decades.

“I was proud to have strong grassroots support in my last effort and will work tirelessly in this campaign to energize ordinary Missourians looking for fresh leadership,” she said.

Though the position of Lt. Governor is a largely ceremonial role, Baker said she would use the job to promote Gov. Jay Nixon’s agenda.

“I believe Missouriansare looking for sensible leadership and elected officials with realistic solutions to the challenges facing our state,” she said.

Two Republicans are seeking their party’s nomination. State Senator Brad Lager, R-Savannah, is challenging incumbent Peter Kinder for the nod.