The results are in for the Missouri governor election, and Republican Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe is projected to be the winner, defeating Democratic challenger Crystal Quade. Kehoe, who previously served as a state senator and businessman, made public safety a key focus of his campaign, promising to hire more law enforcement officers and crack down on fentanyl dealers. He also received an endorsement from former President Trump and advocated for tax cuts and a pro-business agenda.
On the other hand, Quade, the minority leader in the Missouri House, ran on a progressive platform that included expanding access to abortion, child care, and public education. Meanwhile, libertarian candidate Bill Slaintz, a business owner with experience in radio and television consulting, focused on limiting government intervention and abolishing income taxes, Social Security, and minimum wage laws. Green Party candidate Paul Lehman, a retired farmer and former minister, campaigned on environmental sustainability and social justice, with proposals for universal health care and renewable energy sources.
Missouri has a history of leaning towards Republican leadership in recent years, with Gov. Mike Parson taking office in 2018 after Eric Greitens resigned. Greitens, also a Republican, won the election in 2016, following Democrat Gov. Jeremiah “Jay” Nixon’s term from 2009 to 2016.
It will be interesting to see how Kehoe’s victory will impact the state’s policies and future direction, especially in terms of public safety, tax cuts, and business initiatives. The diverse range of candidates in this election reflects the varying political ideologies present in Missouri and highlights the importance of civic engagement and voting in shaping the state’s governance.
As the election results are finalized and the transition of power takes place, Missourians can expect to see changes and developments in areas such as law enforcement, taxation, and economic growth. Stay tuned for updates on how Kehoe’s administration plans to address the issues facing Missouri and fulfill the promises made during the campaign.
