Three candidates are seeking to represent Missouri House District 39, with two facing off for the Democratic nomination in the Aug. 4 primary election.

Tanya Lakins and Dustin Lloyd are seeking the Democratic nomination for the District 39 seat, while incumbent Mark Meirath is running in the Republican primary. The winners will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.

Lakins, 55, is retired and has lived in the district for nearly 15 years. She served 11 years in the Marine Corps after high school and later attended DeVry Institute. She is involved with multiple community boards and veterans organizations and serves as a veterans service officer (VSO).

“I am seeking election because my enthusiasm to serve has not waivered since my 11 years in the Marine Corps,” stated Lakins. “I was born to serve my country and this is my next stage in the journey. I will bring a kind of leadership that Jefferson City has not seen before. I still believe the people have the say. I belong to multiple boards…