Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (R-Mo.) said Monday that she will not run to replace Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt (R), who announced last week that he is not seeking re-election. “I am going to adhere to my calling to serve our Congressional District in Congress, and I am not going to run for governor,” Emerson said in a statement. “I can’t close the door to any future opportunity, but ending my service to the Eighth District in Congress requires a darn good reason, and today, for me, the race for governor just isn’t it. I’m also announcing today that I will file to run for re-election to the U.S. Congress, and I am very much looking forward to that campaign.” Rep. Kenny Hulshof (R-Mo.) remains undecided on the gubernatorial race. — Matthew Murray