By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Missouri Democrats said Thursday they will join Governor Matt Blunt in breaking a few of the traditions surrounding the State of the State address.
For the first time, Democrats will give a formal response to the Republican governor's address.
Blunt this week announced he was breaking from tradition by giving his State of the State speech at night. It's usually a mid-day affair.
Blunt's office says the 7:00 p.m. speech will be a chance for more radio and TV stations will to carry the event live, and offer a chance for more Missourians to actually hear what Blunt has to say.
Attorney General Jay Nixon will then follow up with a brief, formal response. Party spokesman Jack Cardetti says Democrats hope Nixon's remarks will also receive live coverage.