Leonard and Velma Steinman talked about running against each other in November for the right to succeed U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer in Congress.
Instead, voters decided the Steinmans, of Jefferson City, will watch the Nov. 4 general election from the sidelines, as Republicans in the 3rd District overwhelmingly nominated Luetkemeyer, St. Elizabeth, for a fourth two-year term, and Democrats chose Courtney Denton of Arnold to challenge Luetkemeyer.
Libertarian Steven Hedrick, Warrensburg, is the third candidate in that November contest. He had no primary opposition Tuesday, and got a total of 760 Libertarian votes.
With all but three of the district's 358 precincts counted Tuesday night, Luetkemeyer had captured 79.5 percent of all GOP votes, with 69,450 votes. John Morris, St. Peter's, came in second with 9,552 votes (10.9 percent) and Leonard Steinman placed third, with 8,353 votes (9.6 percent).
In a statement, Luetkemeyer said: "This congressional seat does not belong to me but rather belongs to the people of the 3rd Congressional District - and tonight I am honored that voters have seen fit to allow me to represent them in the General Election this November.
"Responding to the concerns of the people has always been my top priority in Congress including my support for economic freedom, financial security, reduced government spending and a commitment to upholding and protecting our rights under the U.S. Constitution."
Democrats gave Denton 15,608 votes (57.1 percent) to Velma Steinman's 11,744 votes (42.9 percent).
Denton was not available for comment Tuesday night.
The district covers all or part of 13 counties, including Cole, Callaway, Osage, Miller, Maries, Gasconade and the northeast corner of Camden counties in Mid-Missouri.
All vote totals are unofficial until the county clerks check the ballots and certify the results later this week.
Other results from Aug. 5, 2014 voting:
State and area primary election vote totals for Aug. 5, 2014
Transportation sales tax defeated
Constitutional amendments bring voters to polls
Voters reject Cole County zoning
Korsmeyer wins GOP race for Cole County Clerk
Area roundup: Russellville, Ashland voters approve sewer bond issues
Other Congressional incumbents prevail