Jim Avery is returning to Jefferson City.
Avery, 55-year-old Republican from Pacific, won the District 22 state Senate seat, defeating Jeff Abney, a 44-year-old Democrat from Barnhart. Avery is a former member of the state House representing District 95 from 2003-2009.
Avery received 35,597 votes, 57.51 percent, and Abney received 26,193 votes, 42.32 percent, according to unofficial results.
District 22 covers northern Jefferson County, including the communities of Arnold, Crystal City, Festus, Pevely, Imperial and Kimmswick.
“I’m happy with the result,” Avery said. “I will be the most senior freshman, and I probably won’t be a typical freshman. I think a lot of people are already leaning on me for leadership. I think some people assumed I would run for leadership, but I decided not to. I had to win before I decided to take a leadership role.
“I will definitely lead people and make sure we fight for what is important for Jefferson County, which is working class jobs and standing up for labor.”
Avery and Abney were vying for the seat vacated by Mary Elizabeth Coleman, who announced in March 2025 she would not seek a second term. State senators are limited to two four-year terms.
Avery is a lawyer and owns Avery Injury Law. He earned his degree from St. Louis University.
He served nearly 23 years in military, including four years in the Marine Corps and the remainder with the Missouri Army National Guard.
“It was a tough year for Republicans nationwide, but I think the results show that Jeff Co is still a conservative area with conservative values,” Avery said. “Now, it is time to get to work.”
Abney is an attorney, holding a law degree from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law. He also holds an associate degree in computer science from Columbia College and bachelor's degrees in business administration and legal studies from Webster University.
“Jim Avery should be very proud of the campaign that he ran, and I am proud of the campaign that I ran,” Abney said. “I’m very proud of the Jefferson County Democrats. Everybody lost tonight, but they all increased their numbers significantly from last time.”
State senators currently receive a $41,770 salary, plus mileage and a per-diem payment for expenses for each day the General Assembly is in session.