JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Suburban St. Louis businessman John Brunner says he's ready to move forward with a campaign for Missouri governor in 2016.
A statement from the Republican sent Friday said he'll make an announcement Oct. 5.
Brunner in April formed a so-called exploratory committee for a campaign for governor. Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon is barred from seeking re-election because of term limits.
Brunner would join at least four other GOP candidates in the running to replace Nixon if he commits.
The others are former Missouri House speaker and U.S. attorney Catherine Hanaway, Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder, state Sen. Bob Dixon and former state Rep. Randy Asbury. Former Navy SEAL Eric Greitens is expected to launch his campaign Saturday.
Attorney General Chris Koster is the only Democrat to say he plans to run.