St. Louis County Republican Dean Plocher announced today that he is dropping his plans to run for the region's 24th state Senate seat and is now supporting fellow Republican John Lamping.

Although Plocher had declared his interest months ago, he had yet to file for the seat now held by Democrat Joan Bray, who is retiring because of term limits. Lamping joined a crowd of Democratic 24th District candidates who filed on Tuesday, the opening day. (Click here for official filing list.)

A lawyer and political newcomer, Plocher's announcement primarily means that Lamping (right), a financial adviser, can preserve any campaign money he has raised -- or will raise -- if he has no opponent in the August primary.

Lamping then can face the victor of the already spirited Democratic contest between former state Rep. Sam Page, current state Rep. Michael Corcoran and St. Louis County Councilwoman (and former state Rep.) Barbara Fraser. Whoever wins the Democratic contest is likely to be low on cash.

In a statement issued by Lamping's campaign, Plocher said, "I believe John Lamping and I share many of the same beliefs and will be able to effectively deliver this important message to the people of the 24th District and the state of Missouri."

Neither Plocher, who manages his own law firm in Clayton, nor Lamping, a financial advisor with Wells Fargo, are career politicians. "John and I share the same vision about the fact that we need effective leadership with solutions and politicians who work for the people," said Plocher. "John is who we need to represent our interests. We need fresh faces, fresh ideas and proven leadership experience."

Said Lamping in the same release: "I want to thank Dean for his support in my bid to represent the 24th District. Dean and I share many of the same values and beliefs, and I look forward to working with him to bring those values and beliefs to the Missouri Senate."