ROLLA — Former state legislator and businessman Frank Barnitz announced Monday, Jan. 19, that he is seeking the Democratic nomination for Missouri’s 8th District U.S. House seat, currently held by Republican Rep. Jason Smith.
Barnitz made the announcement during the Phelps County Democratic Club’s fifth annual Winter Soup Potluck Dinner, held at a local community building. Speaking to a crowd of party members and supporters, Barnitz said he decided to run after years of listening to concerns from residents across southeast Missouri.
Barnitz cited rising costs, aging infrastructure, strained public services and challenges facing working families and small businesses as issues motivating his campaign. He said he believes voters want practical solutions, accessible leadership and a representative who is engaged with the district.
Although running as a Democrat, Barnitz said he would seek to represent all residents of the 8th District regardless of political affiliation. He noted frustration among voters across party lines and said many feel the political system is not working for them.
Barnitz encouraged supporters to take an active role in the campaign, emphasizing grassroots involvement and community engagement. Following his remarks, he answered questions from the audience and shared his personal phone number with attendees.
A native of Poplar Bluff, Barnitz was raised on his family’s farm in Lake Spring. He and his wife, Lisa, raised their three daughters on the same land farmed by earlier generations of his family. Barnitz currently manages Barnitz Farms and operates Networth Feeds & Feeding.
Barnitz previously served on his local school board and represented the area in both the Missouri House and Senate. During his legislative tenure, he served on committees including Appropriations, Agriculture, Transportation and Ways and Means. He currently serves on his local hospital board.
Barnitz is expected to face Smith, who has represented Missouri’s 8th Congressional District since 2013, in the November general election.
