Republican Mike Sullivan recently announced he won't be running in the race for Cole County clerk.
"Our business has just exploded, and I'm having to give it my full attention," he said. "I don't think I'd be able to give the time it takes to run the office the way it should and still try to run my business."
Sullivan thanked those who had supported him in his effort, saying he was humbled by their faith in him.
"I'm still going to be involved in local issues, and maybe in the future, I will again make a run for public office," he said.
With Sullivan out of the race, that leaves Patty Bates, Steve Korsmeyer and Rik Combs running for the Republican nomination for clerk.
Susan Cook is the lone Democrat in the race.
Incumbent Republican Marvin Register is not running for re-election.
The primary election will be held Aug. 5, and the general election will be Nov. 4.