John Martin wins Republican nomination in Missouri 44th House District race

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

John Martin bested Bryce Beal to become the Republican nominee in Missouri's 44th House District race.

The district encompasses most of southern and eastern Boone County outside of Columbia. Martin earned the nomination with 2,755 votes to Beal's 1,744.

Following the nomination, Martin told ABC 17 News he is very grateful and appreciates all of his volunteers and support he received from the 44th.

"Voters know me as a small business owner, the only Boone County native in the race, former pastor and so those connections and leadership experience I think made a big difference," Martin said.

Martin will take on Democratic candidate Dave Raithel in the November election, who ran unopposed in the Democratic primary.

"We've got I think a very well organized campaign and a lot of great volunteers," Martin said earlier on Tuesday. "I'm most proud to have the opportunity just to connect with so many people as a lifelong Boone Countian and as a small business owner and a former pastor."

In a prior interview with ABC 17 News, Martin said he wants to be a "common-sense conservative voice for the 44th District." He stated he believes the government should have three main priorities which include law enforcement, infrastructure and education.

Martin said he believes he is the best candidate for the job because he would represent the values of the district.

"I have an agricultural background and it's very supported there," Martin said. "It'll be a win for the University of Missouri. I've had three kids graduate and [there's] strong support for Mizzou. It'll be a win for law and order."

The 44th District seat was held by Rep. Cheri Toalson Reisch (R-Hallsville), who could not run again because of term limits.