BOONE COUNTY, MO. -- In one of the tightest races of the night, Republican candidate for Boone County Presiding Commissioner Ed Robb had a come from behind victory over his Democratic opponent Scott Christianson.
The margin of victory was only 1 percent.
Ed Robb, 67, will be the only Republican of Boone County’s 12 office holders when he takes over as the next presiding commissioner. Robb campaigned on a platform calling for an overhaul of the county’s budget process and a switch to a charter form of government.
A charter would change the amount of county commissioners from three to five. Robb also campaigned against what he called a “Good Ol’ Boy Club” making outrageous salaries. Boone County office holders have an average annual salary of $82,000.
“I’m not talking about the sheriff or the prosecuting attorney," Robb said. "I’m talking about the other 10 officials, some who are paid, about 60 percent or 70 percent more than some of their counterparts in other Class 1 Counties.”
Robb defeated Democratic Candidate Scott Christianson, 42, by a margin of just 1 percent, or about 500 votes.
“It’s been a great experience," Christianson said. "You get to find out how many friends and family you have that come out and support you and help you and walk in parades and knock on doors and everything. I’m very humbled by that support.”
Robb will be sworn in as the next Boone County Presiding Commissioner on New Years Day. He’ll replace retiring Presiding Commissioner Ken Pearson.
Robb plans to meet with other Boone County elected officials before taking office in January.
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