Republican senator to run for Mo. secretary of state

A second Republican state lawmaker has thrown his hat into the ring for Missouri secretary of state.

Sen. Scott Rupp of Wentzville announced his candidacy Monday during a live radio interview.

In a news release, Rupp hails his experience on issues such as illegal immigration and Internet predators as qualifications for the position.

He also says he created the only oversight committee to root out fraud and abuse of taxpayer funds in the stimulus package.

Republican state Sen. Bill Stouffer of Napton previously announced his plans to seek the office now held by Democrat Robin Carnahan.

Carnahan has said she plans to seek re-election but has not yet started raising money for that campaign.