Republicans Reflect as GOP Caucus Process Nears Conclusion

Missouri’s first round of caucuses are now over, leaving behind a virtual trail of tranquility and chaos.

Chaos was the case in St. Peters, where the St. Charles County Republican Caucus ended without any delegates being allocated. The confrontational event became a national story, resulting in stories both on CNN and in the New York Times.

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Because of that and other examples of confusion detailed in the national and local media, the GOP caucuses were generally perceived of being chaotic and unorganized. Former Sen. Jim Talent (R-MO) appeared on KSDK on Sunday, and described the process in a rather negative light.

Oakville's caucus, where , was orderly and productive. 

So what happens next? For one thing, at least two more caucuses in Jackson County and St. Louis City on Saturday.

It’ll be interesting to see what unfolds this weekend in Jackson County, one of the most populous areas of the state and home to some Republican strongholds. Unlike St. Louis County, which executed its caucuses by township, Saturday’s meeting will be conducted in one place and at one time.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported Thursday afternoon that Republicans in St. Charles County had agreed to hold a new event, with details undetermined.

Eugene Dokes, the chairman of the St. Charles County Republican Central Committee, said in a statement posted on the Missouri Political News Service website that he is "working with the state party and with all the campaigns to find a solution to make sure that St. Charles County is represented at the congressional, state and national conventions. It is my highest priority to make sure that we will not lose any delegates."

St. Charles’ allocation could make a difference, mainly since it supplies a good chunk of delegates to the 2^nd Congressional District and 3^rd Congressional District. 

Then again, the results may be academic at this point. With his resounding victory in Illinois, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney seems to be pulling away with the GOP nomination for president. But this election cycle has been rather unpredictable, so it remains to be seen whether this week's primary is actually a turning point.

Martin, McNary open up shop

Two St. Louis-area candidates for statewide office celebrated the opening of a new headquarters in Valley Park.

Rep. Cole McNary (R-Chesterfield) and attorney Ed Martin will be sharing a space at 932 Meramec Station Road in Valley Park. Martin is running for attorney general, while McNary is running for state treasurer.

Martin dubbed the structure the "Victory Fieldhouse," which seems to be a turn on his "Freedom Bunker" during his 2010 congressional campaign.

"Other state and local candidates were in attendance, giving their thoughts about the direction of the state and the nation," Martin said in an e-mail update. "We were all in agreement that President Obama has to go, and the power of his party has to be cut."

McNary is expected to face off against Democratic state Treasurer Clint Zweifel in the fall. Martin is running against Livingston County Prosecutor Adam Warren in the GOP primary. The winner of that race will face off against Democratic Attorney General Chris Koster.