Scott Sifton, a former Missouri state senator, is the first Democrat to announce plans to run for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican Roy Blunt.
The environmental lawyer, who lives in south St. Louis County, made the announcement Monday in a video released on social media.
Excited to announce I am running for United States Senator here in Missouri! Josh Hawley and Roy Blunt have shown us who they are. Now we have the chance to show who we are as Missourians. I need your help! Visit our campaign website at https://t.co/Qu5E65ZgUI to get started. pic.twitter.com/69fdUgY7fE
— Scott Sifton (@ScottSifton) February 8, 2021
“Missouri needs a senator who promotes truth, not conspiracy theories. And equality, not hate. A senator who trusts science instead of denying it,” Sifton said during his minute-and-a-half video, hitting on talking points of those critical of former President Donald Trump and his allies.
Even though the seat he seeks is held by Blunt, the video starts and concludes with attacks on Sen. Josh Hawley. Sifton criticized the state’s Republican junior senator for inciting the rioters who invaded the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 — a charge Hawley has denied.
Sifton represented parts of south St. Louis County during one term in the House and two terms in the Senate. He is also a former Affton School board member.
Blunt has yet to announce a bid for reelection in November 2022. A spokesperson for the senator said he will announce his plans soon. Other Republicans and Democrats are likely to join the field.
Follow Jonathan on Twitter: @JonathanAhl
Copyright 2021 St. Louis Public Radio.