Politics & Government

Gov. Nixon Endorses Clay in 1st District Race

Endorsements are piling up for both candidates.

Rep. William Lacy Clay scored a major endorsement today from the head of Missouri's Democratic Party.

Gov. Jay Nixon issued a press release in support of Clay, who faces a primary fight from fellow incumbent Democrat Rep. Russ Carnahan.

"For over 25 years, Lacy Clay has been a powerful voice for working families and a tireless advocate for the people of St. Louis," Nixon said. "He’s the right man to continue serving the people of the First Congressional District, and I fully support his re-election."

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St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay and St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley backed Clay almost immediately after Carnahan got into the 1st District contest.

He also received the support of the local AFL-CIO on April 4.

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“Organized labor is standing with Congressman Clay because he has always stood with us,” said Hugh McVey, president of the Missouri AFL-CIO told PoliticMO. “In Congress, Lacy Clay has been a fearless defender of American jobs, American workers, and the right to organize and maintain a safe workplace.”

Carnahan's 3rd District was redrawn after the 2010 census, and his home is no longer within the district boundaries. is represented by the 1st District.

The St. Louis City Democrat had considered running in the GOP-leaning 2nd Congressional District, which now includes Creve Coeur after redistricting, but instead decided to enter into the race against Clay.

Last week, Carnahan received the endorsement of the St. Louis chapter of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). 

Mark Woolbright, vice president of IAFF, told PoliticMo that Carnahan has always supported first responders.

“Whether it’s trying to find ways to save jobs in the region or ensuring that we have top of the line equipment and training, we know the public safety community has a true fighter for our issues in Russ Carnahan.”

See related Clay/Carnahan stories on Patch:


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