Breaking: U.S. Rep. Akin Announces Senate Bid

Update: U.S. Representative Todd Akin has made it official, ending days of speculation that he would enter the U.S. Senate race late Tuesday morning, declaring his candidacy in Creve Coeur to join what is now a GOP primary field in a bid to unseat Claire McCaskill.

Stay with Patch throughout the day for reaction, and video from today's announcement.

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The Republican party field of candidates for the U.S. Senate could be growing in a matter of hours.

Former State Treasurer Sarah Steelman is the only declared candidate, but Tuesday, at Creve Coeur's , it is possible she will be joined in the race by U.S. Representative Todd Akin.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, citing , last week reported that the 11 a.m. announcement will be that Akin is aiming for a move from his 2nd District House seat, to the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Claire McCaskill.

When asked about the details surrounding the planned announcement, Akin spokesperson Steve Taylor told Town and Country-Manchester Patch that            "Congressman Akin has thought long and hard regarding a potential senate run. He has been encouraged by many conservatives that he would make a good, strong conservative candidate." 

Stay with Patch throughout the day for details and reaction to the announcement.

Developing....

Gabrielle Biondo, Local Editor of Town and Country-Manchester Patch, contributed to this report.