Kinder made the announcement as he spoke at the annual Lincoln Days conference in Springfield. He said he plans to run for re-election for Lieutenant Governor instead of running for governor. Following Governor Blunt's surprise announcement that he would not seek re-election, Kinder was the first to jump into the race for the Republican party.

"Since Gov. Blunt's announcement, I have been overwhelmed by the support I have received from many Missourians who want to join my campaign for governor," Kinder said. "After a great deal of thought and prayer over the last several weeks, I have decided I will not run for governor this year, and will ask Missourians for their vote for Lieutenant Governor so we can continue our accomplishments for our veterans, seniors, workers and our shared Missouri values."

U.S. Senator Kit Bond weighed in following Kinder's announcement.

"Peter Kinder has long been dedicated to serving the best interests of Missouri," Bond said. "His decision to narrow the field in the Governor's race is just the latest example of putting others first."

Kinder's announcement leaves State Treasurer Sarah Steelman and Congressman Kenny Hulshof in the Republican primary race. Attorney General Jay Nixon is the only Democratic candidate.