Rep. Todd Akin May Run For Senate Seat

U.S. Rep. Todd Akin, R-Town and Country, is considering running against Democratic incumbent Senator Claire McCaskill for her U.S. Senate seat, said Steve Taylor, Akin's press secretary.

Taylor told Town and Country-Manchester Patch that the consideration came after Akin received comments from constituents that he'd be a "strong conservative candidate" to represent Missouri in the U.S. Senate.

"I don't see an announcement coming in the next day or so," Taylor said. "But it's something he hasn't ruled out."

If Akin decides to run, he'll be up against two other Republicans, former state Treasurer Sarah Steelman and St. Louis area attorney Ed Martin. Both have announced that they will run for Senate in 2012.

Taylor said he is not going to comment on the other Republican candidates, but that Akin is likely evaluating them before making any official announcement.

Taylor said Akin has two priorities as he makes this decision. He said Akin's primary concern is redistricting, making sure he does all he can to ensure the second district is in "good shape" during the process so it is well represented in Congress. Secondly, he said Akin wants to make sure he is the best possible candidate and has a solid chance at winning the race for Senate.

"If we could get a new majority in the Senate, that would be great," Taylor said. "The only reason he would do it is if he decides he's a good candidate."

Akin is currently serving his sixth term as a U.S. Congressman. Taylor said if he decides against running for Senate in 2012, Akin will likely run again for the House.

Town and Country-Manchester contacted McCaskill's office for comment. A spokesperson said McCaskill doesn't have a comment since Akin has not made any official announcement.  McCaskill was elected in 2006 and sworn into office in Jan., 2007.