Zane Yates of Oakville has announced he will not seek the Republican nomination in the August primary for the 3rd Congressional District seat currently held by Democrat Richard Gephardt, who is not seeking re-election.

In a news release issued last week, Yates cited “family concerns” in his decision not to file.

“On Nov. 4, I began a process that I hoped would fulfill a lifelong dream — the dream of serving in the United States Congress,” Yates stated in the release.

“I started this journey with the support of my loving family, many friends, and almost every current and former Republican elected officeholder in the 3rd Congressional District. To me, south county isn’t a political opportunity — it’s home. And having the support of so many community leaders throughout the 3rd District has been a true blessing.

“But as I stated in my announcement speech, my family, friends and neighbors were and have always been my motivation to serve in public life. When I hear stories of families suffering due to jobs being out-sourced overseas or an elderly couple having to consider divorce after 50 plus years of marriage just to qualify for government assistance to purchase needed prescription medicines — my blood boils and I want to do something to help,” Yates continued.

“However, due to family concerns involving an illness my father has been battling for four years and the recent decline of his health, I have decided that I must place the welfare of my family above my desire to run for Congress. Continuing this campaign would require most of my time and attention, despite an increasing need to be able to help out at home. I sincerely hope that by announcing this decision with over three weeks left in the filing period, that a viable Republican will come forward to represent our party for this important seat. The problems facing our country are real and they demand solutions. The leaders we elect must be equal to the task,” Yates stated.

“I hope someday I’ll earn the opportunity to represent this great community in Congress. But for now my place is with my family,” he stated.

To date, eight Democrats and two Republicans have filed for the 3rd Congressional District seat.

Democrats filing include Jeff Smith of St. Louis, state Sen. Steve Stoll of Festus, Mark Smith of St. Louis, Michael R. Bram of Oakville, St. Louis Circuit Clerk Mariano V. Favazza of St. Louis, Corey Mohn of St. Louis, former state Rep. Joan Barry of Oakville and state Rep. Russ Carnahan of St. Louis. Republicans filing include Joan McGiveny of Webster Groves and Bill Federer of Oakville.