Sources close to Missouri Congressman Roy Blunt tell the Post-Dispatch that Blunt will likely seek the Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Kit Bond in 2010.

Blunt, of Springfield, stepped down as the Minority Whip in the U.S. House earlier this year. At the time he said he was going to spend more energy focusing on Missouri politics.

“Congressman Blunt will take a hard look at that race,” said a source close to the congressman.

Blunt could not be reached for comment.

The race would keep a Blunt in statewide political talk for the next two years. Blunt’s son, Gov. Matt Blunt, chose not to seek reelection.

If Blunt runs, it will set up a major showdown of Missouri political family dynasties, as Secretary of State Robin Carnahan has also been named as a possible candidate.