While the first presidential primary is still nine months away, Governor Matt Blunt, along with House Speaker Rod Jetton and Senator Gary Nodler endorsed Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney for president.

"It's important for the president to, I think, set a great example for Americans of all ages and i think clearly Governor Romney's done that in his personal life, and I certainly think that's another strength he brings as a candidate," said Blunt. 

The Romney campaign reported raising 20 million campaign dollars in the first quarter, 375,000 from Missouri.

Other republican lawmakers support Tennessee senator Fred Thompson. Democratic senator Wes Shoemyer is supporting former vice presidential candidate John Edwards.

"I believe that he has the qualifications to connect with people from Missouri, especially working folks," he said.

Both republicans and democrats that KOMU spoke with say they think health care and family values will play important roles in the coming presidential election.

Last year, Blunt and Romney visited Iraq and Afghanistan, and later in the year, visited Alaska for a fishing trip.

Blunt and Romney worked together on the Republican Governor's Association.

Governor Blunt said "Romney's strong conservative principles are right for America.

Blunt, Jetton, and Nodler said they will play some sort of role in Romney's campaign in 2008.

Blunt would not say if he will be seeking re-election in 2008, and said he would decide at a later date as the election gets closer.