Former TV news anchor to run for Missouri secretary of state

Robin Smith, who retired Friday from her post as reporter and anchor at KMOV-TV in St. Louis, announced Sunday she plans to run for Missouri secretary of state in 2016 as a Democrat.

“What Missouri needs now, more than ever, is a public servant who checks their politics at the door. That has been my life’s work and my training," Smith said in a statement. "I look forward to giving Missourians straightforward, professional service as their secretary of state.”

Smith, who spent 40 years in broadcasting, is the only Democrat to announce a bid for the office. Secretary of State Jason Kander, also a Democrat, announced in February he won't seek re-election as he faces Republican U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt for his Senate seat. St. Louis attorney Jay Ashcroft and Missouri Sen. Will Kraus, R-Lee's Summit, are Republicans seeking the secretary of state post, according to the St. Louis Business Journal.

Read more from the St. Louis Business Journal.