Mike Staton, of California, filed Friday for the 58th House District seat currently held by state Rep. David Wood, R-Versailles.
Staton's filing was the third in the Aug. 2 Republican primary for the seat, with the primary winner the apparent winner of the seat - since no one from any other party has filed, so far.
Candidates must file by 5 p.m. March 29 to be listed on the August ballot.
Staton released a statement Monday, reporting he had filed: "Relying on the morals and values which made this country great. ...
"I believe I can work with the other representatives and officials to turn this state around from a course of lack and depression to a course of prosperity and blessing."
Staton said he is an independent business owner who knows "the challenges of running and maintaining a business in today's economic and overburdened regulatory climate. As a husband I understand the attack on the traditional family and the toll it is taking on marriages and families.
"And as a father, I know all too well the condition and struggle in our public schools to deal with the federal overreaching and stifling plan called "Common Core.'"
His statement did not mention either of the other candidates.
Wood filed Feb. 23 - the first day candidates could file for the August primary and November general elections.
Alex Stafford, of Versailles, joined the GOP primary race Feb. 29.
The district includes the southern part of Moniteau County and Morgan County.