For many close observers of Missouri politics, David Wasinger’s win in a crowded primary to succeed Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe was something of a surprise.

The St. Louis County attorney narrowly edged state Sen. Lincoln Hough, a Springfield Republican who had nabbed a slew of key endorsements and raised a substantial amount of money. During an episode of the Politically Speaking podcast, Wasinger attributed his win to something unusual: His 2018 loss in a Republican primary for state auditor.

Even though he fell short to eventual primary winner Saundra McDowell, Wasinger said that campaign gave him a good perspective on what he needed to do to win in a crowded statewide race. And it also ensured he had a solid base of supporters from all over Missouri.

“I would not have been able to run for lieutenant governor on this shorter ramp up period of time unless I had run for state auditor,” Wasinger said. “So I honestly, whether it's fate, or I think the good Lord looks over you, and this is what he saw as my calling. So it works out in mysterious ways, and this was the path that I've been given.”