State Senator Luetkemeyer Poised to Become Next Platte County Prosecutor

Luetkemeyer steps in after incumbent Zahnd and his first assistant Gibson withdraw from the race, leaving him as the sole candidate.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:23pm

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A serene, cinematic painting of a government building in Platte City, Missouri, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a contemplative mood, conceptually representing the transition in the county prosecutor's office.The impending leadership change in the Platte County Prosecutor's Office signals a shift toward a more aggressive stance on crime and stronger support for local law enforcement.Platte City Today

In a surprising turn of events, Missouri State Senator Tony Luetkemeyer is set to become the next Platte County Prosecuting Attorney after the incumbent, Eric Zahnd, and his first assistant prosecutor, Mark Gibson, both withdrew their candidacies. With Luetkemeyer as the sole remaining candidate, he will be unopposed in both the August primary and November general election.

Why it matters

Luetkemeyer's appointment as Platte County's top prosecutor will have significant implications for law enforcement, criminal justice, and public safety in the region. As a longtime state senator, Luetkemeyer has built a reputation as a strong supporter of law enforcement and an advocate for tougher policies against violent crime.

The details

The race for Platte County Prosecuting Attorney took an unexpected turn on March 31 when incumbent Eric Zahnd withdrew his bid for re-election at 4:55 p.m. Just one minute later, his first assistant prosecutor, Mark Gibson, filed for the position. However, the next morning the Platte County Board of Elections announced that state law required the filing period to be reopened from April 7-11, at which point Gibson withdrew to make way for Luetkemeyer to enter the race. By the end of the filing period on April 11, Luetkemeyer's name was the only one on the ballot, effectively securing him the position.

  • On March 31, incumbent Eric Zahnd withdrew his re-election bid at 4:55 p.m.
  • On March 31, Mark Gibson filed for the position at 4:56 p.m.
  • On April 1, the Platte County Board of Elections announced the filing period would be reopened from April 7-11.
  • On April 9, Gibson withdrew his candidacy to allow Luetkemeyer to file.
  • By the end of the filing period on April 11, Luetkemeyer was the sole candidate on the ballot.

The players

Tony Luetkemeyer

A Missouri state senator who is poised to become the next Platte County Prosecuting Attorney after the incumbent and his first assistant both withdrew from the race.

Eric Zahnd

The retiring Platte County Prosecuting Attorney who endorsed Luetkemeyer as his successor.

Mark Gibson

The first assistant prosecutor under Zahnd who briefly entered the race before withdrawing to allow Luetkemeyer to run unopposed.

Erik Holland

The Platte County Sheriff who praised Luetkemeyer's strong support for law enforcement.

Brad Lemon

The President of Lodge 99 and Executive Vice President of the Missouri Fraternal Order Police, who endorsed Luetkemeyer's campaign.

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What they’re saying

“Serving the people of Platte and Buchanan counties has been a privilege. As Platte County prosecutor, I will work every day to ensure our neighborhoods are safe, violent criminals are held accountable, and law enforcement officers have the support they need to do their jobs effectively.”

— Tony Luetkemeyer, Missouri State Senator

“Tony brings the right combination of legal experience, public service, and commitment to justice. His work in the Missouri Senate demonstrates a clear understanding of what it takes to keep communities safe while upholding the rule of law. Under his leadership, the Platte County Prosecutor's Office will be in good hands.”

— Eric Zahnd, Retiring Platte County Prosecutor

“Tony Luetkemeyer has been one of the strongest allies law enforcement has had in Jefferson City. He understands the challenges sheriffs and police officers face and has consistently fought to ensure we have the resources needed to protect our communities. I fully support his candidacy for prosecutor.”

— Erik Holland, Platte County Sheriff

“Senator Luetkemeyer has delivered real results for law enforcement — raising officer pay, protecting officers and their families, and ensuring departments have the tools they need. We are proud to endorse his campaign for Platte County prosecutor.”

— Brad Lemon, President of Lodge 99 and Executive Vice President of the Missouri Fraternal Order Police

What’s next

Luetkemeyer will run unopposed in both the August primary and November general election, clearing the way for him to become the next Platte County Prosecuting Attorney.

The takeaway

Luetkemeyer's appointment as Platte County's top prosecutor signals a shift toward a tougher stance on crime and stronger support for law enforcement in the region. His legislative record and endorsements from law enforcement leaders suggest he will bring a more aggressive approach to prosecuting violent offenders and supporting the needs of police.