Missouri Republicans have selected a new party leader, casting out chairman David Cole. As per a news release... The Republican State Committee voted 34-32 to elect Ed Martin as the new state party chairman Saturday. Martin, of St. Louis, led Republicans' coordinated campaign efforts this fall and lost a bid for attorney general in November. He also served as chief of staff to Gov. Matt Blunt. Cole is an attorney from Cassville. Republican leaders met Saturday in Columbia. A Missouri Republican Party spokesman says Martin was elected in the second round of balloting.