By Marshall Griffin, KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Special elections will be held in November to fill two St. Louis-area legislative seats.
Former Senator Jeff Smith (D, St. Louis) and former Representative Steve Brown (D, Ladue) resigned their seats Tuesday after pleading guilty to federal obstruction of justice charges.
Governor Jay Nixon says it's disappointing that Smith and Brown lied to federal authorities.
"It also serves as a clear reminder that the public expects and demands appropriate conduct from people they give significant power to, and failure to abide by those laws carries appropriate and stiff penalties," Nixon said.
Nixon made that comment today after addressing a conference in Jefferson City.
Potential candidates for the 4th District Senate seat include State House Members T.D. El-Amin, Jamilah Nasheed, and Rachel Storch.
Possible contenders for the 73rd State House seat include Richmond Heights Councilwoman Gina Mitten, and Stacey Newman, who lost to Brown in last year's Democratic primary.