De Soto and Festus businessman Todd Mahn, who previously announced his candidacy for Congress in the 8th Congressional District, has withdrawn from the race.
Mahn filed as a Democrat and, had he been successful in the primary election, likely would have faced longtime incumbent U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson of Cape Girardeau, a Republican, in the general election.
Mahn, 41, said Gov. Jay Nixon asked him to continue to serve on the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors, which he chairs. Mahn's five-year term expired April 1 but now he expects to be reappointed to another term.
Mahn had filed for 8th District race in March and had a primary opponent, Jack Rushin of Poplar Bluff, who will now be unopposed.
