JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri Republicans voted on Tuesday to support the current direction of state government under Gov. Mike Parson. Parson wasn’t surprised by the outcome and expressed his satisfaction.
“It was a great night for me as governor and personally because I got to select these people for their positions,” Parson said.
On Tuesday, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe won the Republican nomination for governor, while Attorney General Andrew Bailey and State Treasurer Vivek Malek also secured their nominations. All three were appointed by Parson and endorsed by him for this year’s election.
“These men who won all come from humble beginnings,” Parson said. “They work hard, treat people well, and want what’s best for Missouri.”
In November, Kehoe will run against House Minority Leader Crystal Quade (D-Springfield), Bailey will face Elad Gross, and Malek will compete with Mark Osmack.
Parson plans to campaign for the Republicans on November 5 and is personally invested in their success. “I asked them to help me be governor, and they did. My job now is to help them win in November,” he said.
Parson is confident about the election results and believes this week’s votes show Missourians want to continue the state’s current direction. He will also campaign for other races, including lieutenant governor and secretary of state.
In the Republican Secretary of State race, Sen. Denny Hoskins (R-Cooper County) won with 24% of the vote. Hoskins will face Barbara Phifer, the Democratic primary winner with 41% of the vote. Parson wants the next secretary of state to continue Missouri’s tradition of fair elections.
Parson is unsure about the legislature’s outcome but highlighted Boone County’s upcoming state senate race as a key area. He emphasized the need for a representative who will focus on both local and state interests.
Parson advised all candidates to remember they are public servants and should prioritize serving the people over seeking headlines.
After the election, Parson plans to ensure a smooth transition for the next administration and then return to his farm in southwest Missouri. He stated he no longer wishes to stay in politics.
Parson became Missouri’s 57th governor in 2018 after Eric Greitens resigned and was elected to the position in 2020. He is proud of his administration’s achievements, including managing crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and working on workforce development and infrastructure.
“It’s been a great honor to be governor of this state,” Parson said.