Missouri Republicans are gearing up for special elections called by Gov. Matt Blunt for February 5, 2008. The special elections consist of three Missouri House seats in St. Charles, St. Louis City and Cape Girardeau. Carl Bearden’s resignation created an opening in the 16th House District, Fred Kratky’s resignation created an opening in the 65th House District while Nathan Cooper’s resignation created an opening in the 158th House District. Political central committees in each district will nominate and file candidates with the Secretary of State’s Office. The February 5 elections will be the first statewide election since the representatives submitted their resignations and fall on the same day as Missouri’s presidential primary. These elections will provide Republicans with an opportunity to unleash our vaunted get-out-the-vote efforts that have been extremely successful over the last several years and will help lead us to greater victories in 2008.