Mo. state rep. withdraws candidacy for re-election

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- A St. Louis area House member is forgoing re-election.

Republican Scott Muschany withdrew from the race Tuesday, saying he wants to spend more time with his wife and two kids.

Muschany was first elected in 2004 and says he will stay active in St. Louis County politics, but that he wants to be home more often.

His decision to bow out leaves Mark Zoole, a Democrat from Rock Hill, as the only person still in the race. But when an incumbent withdraws, candidacy filing automatically reopens.

New candidates will have until May 28 to enter the race.

Muschany says he recruited St. Louis County Elections Board Chairman John Diehl to file for the seat. Diehl did not immediately return calls seeking comment.