JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – More than two years before the 2016 Republican primary, Missouri Senate leaders are making their support known for former House Speaker Catherine Hanaway’s campaign for governor.

On Monday, Senate Majority Floor Leader Ron Richard, R-Joplin, followed Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey, R-St. Charles, in backing Hanaway’s campaign. Richard’s camping cut a $10,000 check to Hanaway’s campaign on Monday, following a similar action by Dempsey earlier this month.

Despite their early support for Hanaway, it is unclear whether she will go unopposed in the primary. State Auditor Tom Schweich, a Republican, has openly mulled his intention to seek the Republican nomination for the post.

Attorney General Chris Koster, a Democrat, is likely to seek the Democratic nomination for the seat and is unlikely to face any primary opposition.