Gov. Korman? State Rep’s interest in state’s top position done as tribute
Posted 11/7/19
By Tim Schmidt Record Managing Editor On paper, State Rep. Bart Korman is running for governor. But in reality, the Republican who represents Warren County isn’t. Korman filed a campaign document …
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Gov. Korman? State Rep’s interest in state’s top position done as tribute
Posted
By Tim SchmidtRecord Managing EditorOn paper, State Rep. Bart Korman is running for governor.But in reality, the Republican who represents Warren County isn’t.Korman filed a campaign document in November indicating he was running for governor as a tribute to a late friend who always could be counted on during the campaign season.The state’s top position will be on the ballot in 2016.A Republican from High Hill, Korman represents the 42nd District that encompasses all of Montgomery County, most of Warren County and southwestern portion St. Charles County. He began his third two-year term last week after defeating Democratic challenger Rod Sturgeon in November.Following the November general election, candidates are required to keep their campaign committee organization open or close it. It was at that time Korman decided to honor Kenneth Kronk by filing an amended statement indicating he was running for governor.Kronk, who resided in Montgomery City and had been battling health issues, died Dec. 21. He was 68.“He always encouraged me that I should run for governor,” Korman said. “I called him and told him on paper I was running for governor. I told him it probably wouldn’t stick though.”Korman acknowledged the amended committee report has caught the attention of some state lawmakers and others in Jefferson City. However, he has remained tight-lipped on the reason until now.Candidate filing for the 2016 statewide races will open next year. So far, the only candidates who have declared their candidacy are Republican Catherine Hanaway and Democrat Chris Koster.Korman can amend the campaign committee report at any time, he said.“It was a personal thing,” he said. “Obviously it’s made a few headlines in the political circles. I haven’t told them the reason why. It’s been interesting in the last week since the filing. It shows there is a lot of time and people are still looking to support or get behind a candidate. It shows the field is not set.”Kronk regularly campaigned for Korman including going door-to-door or walking in parades.Korman recalled a time when they were going walking in a Warrenton subdivision and Kronk was struck by a car. Despite being shaken up, Kronk continued walking right alongside Korman.“He was a dedicated friend,” Korman said.So what was Kronk’s reaction to the news prior to his passing?“He thought it was neat,” Korman said. “He truly thought I should be running for governor at some time. He really appreciated it.“His heart was as good as gold. He will definitely be missed.”
Bart Korman, 42nd District state rep. talking about Kenneth Kronk, above right.
