Delegation of high-profile duty to first-term lawmaker raises eyebrows in Jefferson City

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The committee paid Axiom Strategies, the well-known GOP consulting firm headed by bad boy Jeff Roe, to promote Tobin. Sanders said he had nothing to do with the committee hiring Roe and declined further comment, not wanting, he said, to get into a “tit for tat” battle with LeVota.

LeVota wasn’t reticent.

“As a Democrat, I am saddened to see the Democratic leader being caught … working with the nastiest Republican strategist in the state,” he said.

Asked for a response, Roe said: “You’re telling me two Democrats are saying bad things about each other? Why in the world would I want to get in the middle of that?”

Sanders and the LeVotas also appear to be battling over control of the Jackson County Democratic Committee. In one race, State Rep. Paul LeVota’s wife, Nancy, the incumbent, is pitted against Sanders’ mother-in-law, Nicki Cardwell.

Other Democrats suggest the feud is really about the future. Paul LeVota is the House minority leader and has drawn mostly glowing reviews for his early work and attempts to win back the House for the Democrats. He’s also seen as a possible successor to Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, whenever Cleaver steps down.

Another possible successor? Democrats point to one Mike Sanders.

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Sen. Sam Brownback of Kansas is telling Republicans that he’s interested in running for governor in 2010. That he’s in the midst of a 105-county tour might hint at his intentions.

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To reach Steve Kraske, call 816-234-4312 or send e-mail to skraske@kcstar.com.