Harris to step down

By James Patrick Schmidt

Published July 11, 2007

Rep. Jeff Harris, D-Columbia, announced that he will run for attorney general, and in order to devote his full attention to the post, he will step down from his position as the minority leader in the Missouri House of Representatives.

"I'm stepping down because I'm running for attorney general," he said. "It would be very difficult to divide my time between being the minority leader and becoming the next attorney general. I owe it to my caucus and to the investors and supporters in my campaign to not divide my time."

According to a June 26 news release, Harris launched a campaign Web site and is planning for a traditional fly-around announcement of his candidacy after Labor Day.

The Web site contains information about Harris' stances on several Missouri issues, a biography and information on contacting the campaign.

"We will continue to work for what we have done throughout my career: working for average Missourians; creating opportunity; and working hard to make the world a better place," Harris said.

Harris said he hopes to carry over these ideals while campaigning.

"I'm running for attorney general because I'm the best qualified person, and my record demonstrates that I have been a champion of average Missourians and underdogs," he said. "That's what I plan to continue as the attorney general."

The next minority leader of the House will be elected at the Democratic Party Caucus before the start of the legislative session.

Harris will continue to serve as the representative for the 23rd House District through January 2009.