ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - Despite the aid of a couple big name Republicans, Republican Ed Martin has been defeated by Democrat Chris Koster in the race for Missouri’s attorney general.

Florida U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio and Texas Gov. Rick Perry both attended rallies for Martin who served as chief of staff to Republican Gov. Matt Blunt. Democratic Attorney General Chris Koster was seeking a second term.

Martin defeated Livingston County prosecutor Adam Warren in the GOP primary. Even before the primary, Martin tried to link Koster to President Barack Obama.

Koster was unopposed in the Democratic primary. Four years ago, he won a Democratic contest that was close enough to allow for a recount.

Koster announced an endorsement by the National Rifle Association in late September. The Democratic attorney general said his job involves defending the rights of all Missourians, including the right to bear arms.

The NRA had rated Koster “solidly pro-gun,” which it says reflects a demonstrated record of support for Second Amendment issues. The NRA rated Martin “pro-gun” based on his answers to a survey because he does not have a voting record.

In his campaign commercial, Martin introduced his family and promises to protect constitutional rights and to fight the federal health care overhaul. He also criticized Koster for spending by the attorney general’s office.