KANSAS CITY, Mo. — U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) announced Monday morning he will not run for reelection in 2022.
Blunt, the state’s senior senator, posted the announcement to supporters and on social media Monday morning.
Thank you, Missourians, for the opportunity to work for you and a better future for our state and our country. pic.twitter.com/1GjX74zhZB
— Senator Roy Blunt (@RoyBlunt) March 8, 2021
“After 14 general election victories, three to county office, seven to the United States House of Representatives and four statewide elections, I won’t be a candidate for reelection to the United States Senate next year," the announcement read.
Blunt, 71, was first elected to state office in 1985, serving 12 years as Missouri’s Secretary of State. Starting in 1997, he served seven terms in Missouri’s 7th congressional district.
Following the retirement of Sen. Kit Bond, Blunt ran for and won a U.S. Senate seat in 2011. He won re-election in 2016 over Democratic challenger Jason Kander.
Blunt’s announcement likely clears the way for a highly competitive Republican primary in 2022 to join Missouri's other senator, Josh Hawley, in representing the state in the Senate.
“I want to thank my family and thank the great team that came together to help me work for you," Blunt said in the announcement. “Most importantly, thanks to Missourians, whether you voted for me or not, for the opportunity to work for you and a better future for our state and our country.
“There is still a lot to do, and I look forward to every day this year and next year as I continue to work for you in the Senate.
