Editor’s Note: While all candidates for each race are listed, only those who are in contested races received questionnaires. Their replies are printed below if they responded by the deadline. Party affiliations are marked as follows: Republican (R), Democrat (D), Libertarian (L), Better Party (BP), Green (G) and Constitution (C). Incumbents are marked with an asterisk. Certain answers are re-printed from the August Primary Q&A. Answers do not reflect the opinions of this paper and have not been fact-checked.
Candidates for U.S. Senator and U.S. Representative were asked the following questions:
Q1) What areas would you focus on while in office to ensure a stable U.S. economy?
Q2) Aside from the economy, what are the nation’s two most immediate needs and how would you work with others to address them?
Q3) How would you work to reduce the political divide in the country?
Q4) What qualifies you for this office (past experience, major accomplishments)?
Q5) What else would you like our readers to know about you before heading to the polls?
U.S. SENATOR
• Josh Hawley (R)* – Candidate did not respond.
• Lucas Kunce (D)
Q1) We need to build an economy that puts American workers in charge, not giant corporations and foreign oligarchs – an economy that invests in putting America first in the next generation of energy, semiconductors and supply chain independence. We need to focus on reshoring our jobs and ensuring that investment and opportunity stop being shipped overseas.
Q2) 1: We need to get the government out of people’s lives. Politicians shouldn’t be able to tell us what to do in the bedroom, in the doctor’s office or in the workplace. Missourians deserve to be able to live their own lives and make decisions for themselves. 2: We need to put an end to pointless, trillion-dollar wars and invest in a Marshall Plan for the Midwest – a historic investment in our workers and communities to rebuild our forgotten towns and cities, and to finally start making stuff in America again.
Q3) The greatest divide in our country isn’t between neighbors who vote for different candidates, it’s between corrupt politicians and the people they try to control. As U.S. senator, I’ll work to get Big Money and personal enrichment out of politics. I’ll work to ban all stock ownership and outside income for members of Congress, judges and executive branch officials. I’ll work to overturn Citizens United and abolish corporate PACs and dark money groups. I’ll push for these rules to include criminal penalties for lawbreakers – including jail time. I’ll work with anyone, from any party, to move this agenda forward.
Q4) I grew up like most Missouri families: paycheck-to-paycheck. So when my sister was born with a heart condition and medical bills bankrupted my family, we got by because people in our neighborhood helped us. I joined the Marines to pay them back and served 13 years. I trained with the Border Patrol Tactical Unit in Yuma, Arizona, deployed to Iraq and led a police training team, deployed twice to Afghanistan on Special Operations Task Forces, and served on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon. Those years of service will help inform my work in the U.S. Senate.
Q5) I’m running for U.S. Senate to empower everyday Missourians with the economic and personal freedoms that they deserve – over their own communities, their own families and their own bodies.
• W. C. Young (L) – Candidate could not be reached.
• Jared Young (BP)
Q1) Decades of irresponsible spending and poor decision-making by both major parties have left our country on the brink of fiscal disaster. Both parties inflate budgets (and deficits) to buy voter support. Our national debt has exploded over the past two decades. The federal government now spends $400 billion a year just on interest payments. But we still have time to act before disaster strikes. If we elect leaders with real political courage – people who put the country’s future over their own political careers – we can implement a plan to stabilize America’s finances, save Social Security and begin reducing our crippling national debt.
Q2) Immigration and international security. We need a secure border, and we also need more legal immigrants. We must stem the flow of illegal immigration while taking measures that will make legal immigration easier for qualified individuals. Internationally, we must support our allies and stand up to those who are attacking our interests. Our allies no longer trust us, and our enemies no longer fear us. We have to change that. This means continued support of Ukraine against Russia’s aggression and support of Israel against Iran and its proxies. It also means re-investing in our military.
Q3) As an independent, I am uniquely positioned to ignore partisan considerations and focus exclusively on what is best for our state and our country. My entire campaign has been focused on reminding voters that we have more in common than the two parties try to make us think. In the Senate, I will continue to carry that message, working with lawmakers of both parties to tackle the problems we currently can’t solve because of hyperpartisan dysfunction. I’ll judge ideas based purely on their merits rather than on who they came from or who will get credit for them.
Q4) I have done internships in every branch of government, giving me first-hand insights into how government really operates. I have lived in Europe and the Middle East, giving me a love for diverse cultures and increasing my appreciation for our country. I have volunteered in the community, including serving on the Boys and Girls Club board and in positions at my church, giving me a first-hand perspective on the challenges associated with generational poverty in Missouri.
Q5) My unique combination of international experience, legal knowledge, business acumen and empathy for the downtrodden will make me a knowledgeable and compassionate senator who can tackle the challenges this country faces. All these experiences have prepared me for public service as a U.S. senator. Forty-three percent of Missourians don’t affiliate with either of the two major parties. Elections today feel like you’re voting against the politician you dislike the most rather than a candidate you trust. That’s because candidates have to appease the most extremes on each side, leaving the exhausted majority in the middle unhappy. Uniquely qualified, high integrity, independent.
• Nathan Kline (G)
Q1) The greatest era of shared economic prosperity in American history was the result of post-war redistributive, progressive taxes. I support a return to the Eisenhower-Nixon tax rates of the 1950s that taxed the top tax bracket at 91%. This set a ceiling to wealth hoarding in the U.S. Today, three old men hoard more wealth than the bottom 165 million Americans. This mis-measures the worth of Americans. No one is worth as much as a billion dollars, and none are so worthless that they should live in the park.
Q2) Sustainability: Climate scientists have long warned us that we must stop burning fossil fuels or face a hellish future. Both Obama and Biden issued more new fossil fuel drilling permits than Trump. We must replace both fossil fuel-funded parties with good ancestors putting future generations ahead of the short-term profits of multinational corporations and billionaires. Foreign Policy: We have 800-plus foreign military bases. No other country has 25. Empires rot from the inside, spending their energy on foreign wars while the homeland withers. Instead of investing in forever wars, let’s bring those investments home.
Q3) The political divide in this country is produced by the theatrical hyperventilating of the two corporate parties over a small handful of items that they differ on: guns, gays and abortion. All of American politics has been reduced to these few things. Actually, both of them are in complete agreement regarding the corporate status quo that insists that in all aspects of American life that the market should decide all consequences and that their only role is to stay out of the way and to funnel the American tax base to the priorities of their wealthy donors.
Q4) I have 30 years of experience in administration in the private and public sectors that has prepared me to be a great senator. As the only candidate in this race that does not accept money from corporations and wealthy individuals seeking to influence the decision of lawmakers, I am the only candidate qualified to actually serve working Missourians. I have volunteered thousands of hours petitioning to put myself and other corporate-free Green Party candidates on the ballot and have talked with thousands of voters. They are disgusted that our democracy has been sold out to the highest bidder. I will serve only them.
Q5) I am a lifelong resident of Kansas City and a long-time homeowner in the Plaza-Westport neighborhood. After twenty-five years of hospitality management experience, I brought my skill set to the public sector in 2013 to work for the City Planning and Development Department of the city of Kansas City, Missouri, where I am currently honored to help serve my city and neighbors.
I have been a supporter of the Green Party since the 1996 Ralph Nader Presidential campaign after realizing that the two corporate parties are irredeemably corrupt and have run twice a Green Party candidate in 2018 and in 2020.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE • District 2
• Ann Wagner (R)*
Q1) Inflation is no accident. Reckless spending by Washington Democrats set us on a path to the unaffordability we are seeing in our communities. Groceries are too expensive, the American dream of owning a home is unattainable and people want real leadership from Washington. I will focus on reducing the out-of-control and wasteful spending we see in the federal government. At a time when Americans are being forced to tighten their budgets to afford necessities, their government should be better stewards of their tax dollars.
Q2) The border and reducing crime. Our open border is both a national security threat and a humanitarian crisis. The Biden-Harris administration has endangered Americans by failing to secure the border and by refusing to reinstate President Donald Trump’s successful border policies. We need to build the border wall and end illegal catch and release. Also, Missourians should be able to feel safe in our communities, and I wholeheartedly stand against efforts to defund the police. I am proud to have the endorsement of the Missouri Fraternal Order of Police and will always support keeping dangerous criminals off our streets.
Q3) I have always fought to advance policies benefiting our country, not special interests. Whether it was my fight against sex trafficking, my work to protect small business and middle-income investors, or it was my efforts to promote American energy independence, I built consensus on each of these issues. I will continue to promote policies like these with the support of voters in the 2nd Congressional District. We can overcome disagreements by tackling issues benefitting all Americans.
Q4) I have always been a workhorse, not a showhorse. My accomplishments in office have had benefits across the district, our state and the country, but I will never forget I work for the people. Our outstanding constituent services have helped veterans in need, solved complex IRS issues and has ensured our seniors receive their due benefits. It truly is an honor to serve the people of Missouri’s 2nd District. It is an honor I view as a calling, not a job. Exemplary customer service for the 2nd District is at the core of what I do as your representative.
Q5) My record speaks for itself – I fight to keep our communities safe, protect the most vulnerable and make life affordable again. Specifically, I have been a leader in Congress to end human trafficking and ensure we have adequate funding for rape kit testing. It is imperative we protect our communities and bring criminals to justice. I will always stand for the people who make Missouri the greatest place to live, work and raise a family.
• Ray Hartmann (D) – Candidate did not respond.
• Brandon Daugherty (L) – Candidate could not be reached.
• Shelby Davis (G) – Candidate could not be reached.
The candidates for state and local office were asked the following questions:
Q1) What qualifies you for this office (past experience, major accomplishments)?
Q2) What are your top three priorities if elected?
Q3) What else would you like our readers to know about you before heading to the polls?
GOVERNOR
• Mike Kehoe (R)
Q1) As a leader, small businessman and first-generation farmer, I have the real-world experience of creating jobs and providing economic opportunities for Missouri families. I have a proven track record of fighting the liberal agenda, cutting taxes and advancing solutions that protect Missouri’s common sense, conservative values. I have been endorsed by Missouri’s leading pro-business, pro-agriculture and pro-public safety organizations and their thousands of members.
Q2) As governor, I will work to crack down on crime and illegal immigration, expand educational opportunities, support farmers and Missouri’s agriculture industry, grow our economy and cut taxes.
Q3) Born and raised in North St. Louis City from humble beginnings, I worked hard to build successful businesses and achieve the American Dream. I am focused on securing results for Missourians, not just rhetoric.
• Crystal Quade (D)
Q1) Growing up in rural Missouri, my mom waited tables at the local diner, and I became the first in my family to graduate from high school before graduating from Missouri State as a social worker. Since I was first elected as state representative in 2016 and House minority leader in 2018, I’ve made fighting for working families like the one I grew up in my top priority. I’ve stood side by side with working families to help defeat anti-worker legislation, worked to make childcare more affordable and accessible, and as governor, I’ll continue putting Missourians over special interests.
Q2) My number one priority is always going to be putting working Missourians first. We’ll start by making healthcare more accessible and affordable by taking on insurance and drug manufacturers. Then making sure our children are receiving the best education so they can succeed by paying our teachers, fully funding our public schools and expanding access to pre-K for all Missouri children. Finally, investing in our infrastructure to keep us connected. Increasing access to broadband across Missouri is a key to making Missouri the best place to live, work, run a business and raise a family.
Q3) As the House minority leader, I’ve been leading the fight to stop the government overreach into Missourian’s everyday lives. Whether it’s leaving personal medical decisions between you and your doctor or giving local governments the ability to pass laws that fit their local communities, Missourians are ready for a leader who will get things done, not just play politics. As governor, I’ll restore access to reproductive healthcare, continue fighting for working families like the one I grew up in and make sure Missouri remains a beacon of freedom for generations to come.
• Bill Slantz (L)
Q1) I have been in executive leadership for most of my adult life. I am a family man, businessman and former state chair of the Libertarian Party of Missouri. As governor, I will enact policies that remove barriers to economic participation, bring economic growth and spread it more inclusively. I will defend and protect your individual freedoms and strive to help every Missourian flourish.
Q2) 1: End Personal Property Tax. 2: End Missouri State Income Tax. 3: Abolish Minimum Wage.
Q3) As the Missouri gubernatorial candidate, I advocate for minimal government intervention in business, supporting voluntary economic exchange and opposing government interference. Market-based institutions should replace state safety regulations, with the state’s role limited to safety oversight.
• Paul Lehmann (G) - Candidate did not respond.
LT. GOVERNOR
• Dave Wasinger (R)
Q1) I am a conservative outsider who has successfully managed my own business for over 20 years. I have a proven record of success in taking on the special interests. Following the 2008 financial crisis, I took on the Wall Street banks and recovered billions of dollars for American taxpayers.
Q2) As a conservative outsider, I intend on ending special interests’ control of Jefferson City, increasing tourism by reducing crime and making sure we spend more on our great veterans than illegal immigrants.
Q3) Missouri Right to Life PAC has exclusively endorsed me to be Missouri’s next lieutenant governor.
• Richard Brown (D)
Q1) Experienced state legislator. Served eight years in the Missouri House of Representatives. Numerous leadership positions currently held including assistant minority floor leader and Tourism Commissioner for the state. My skill set is very specific to many of the tasks required for the job of lieutenant governor. I am an excellent communicator and accessible to the public.
Q2) Increasing affordable housing units statewide. Eliminating the state food and grocery tax. Expanding childcare and reforming how the state makes childcare provider reimbursements.
Q3) My wife and I are both retired public school teachers. In the legislature, I worked to protect the pensions of firefighters, police officers, government workers and teachers. I helped create the first-time homebuyers savings program and a multi-employer savings program within our state. I have common sense and moral-based values.
• Ken Iverson (L)
Q1) I’m not a politician. I’m a creative problem solver who wants the brightest future for all Missourians. I can no longer idly watch our state and nation each deteriorate into an overextended socialist experiment that cannot balance its budget without extreme cuts. Having studied economics and political philosophy most of my life, I’ve concluded that government works best when it promotes and does not impede the natural, peaceful interactions of individuals, all seeking the same general betterment for themselves, their loved ones and their communities. I found that liberty is the only moral political philosophy that meets this standard.
Q2) Ending state tax on income, personal property and retail sales: These transformational changes will substantially increase actual retail sales, tourism, employment, business opportunities and the size of paychecks, while reducing crime by lifting the at-risk young and unemployed out of poverty. Alaska and New Hampshire have none of these taxes. Neither should we. To pay for it, I’ll remind everyone that state programs that conflict with private charities and common sense should be abolished. Huge sectors, such as those dealing with behavior, addiction and state economic development should privatize, become charities or expire; not make off with our tax dollars.
Q3) I’m a Navy veteran, engineer and retired defense analyst from Lake Saint Louis and actively enjoy pickleball, table tennis, sailing and church choir.
• Danielle (Dani) Elliot (G) – Candidate did not respond.
SECRETARY OF STATE
• Denny Hoskins (R)
Q1) As a founding member of the Missouri Freedom Caucus, I am the only secretary of state candidate who voted to require a photo ID to vote in our elections. I will also use my experience as a certified public accountant to audit the voter rolls to ensure only eligible voters vote in Missouri.
Q2) 1: Audit the voter rolls to ensure non-citizens don’t vote in our elections. 2: Ensure all ballot language is single subject. Voters deserve to vote on each subject individually. 3: Defund any public library that has x-rated materials in the kids section or is hosting drag queen story hour for kids.
Q3) I’m a conservative fighter, not a RINO Republican. I’ve been endorsed by Missouri Right to Life, Mike Lindell, the National Rifle Association and received an A rating from the Missouri Firearms Coalition for my conservative voting record.
• Barbara Phifer (D)
Q1) Currently a state representative in District 90. United Methodist pastor for 41 years.
Q2) Professional and impartial oversight of elections in Missouri. Local control for local libraries. Competent and efficient registration of businesses and not-for-profits. Missouri needs professional, honest and transparent leadership in this office.
Q3) I will work for all Missourians to ensure that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to vote. I will maintain the integrity of our election system, work to make businesses run smoothly and support local libraries.
• Carl Herman Freese (L) – Candidate did not respond.
• Jerome Bauer (G) – Candidate could not be reached.
STATE TREASURER
• Vivek Malek (R)*
Q1) I am honored to have served as state treasurer since January 2023, and I have set records for returning unclaimed property to Missourians, increased the number of people taking part in the MOScholars program, pushed the state pension system to divest from communist China, and expanded access to the MOBUCK$ low-interest loan program. Prior to serving in state office, I built a successful small business and served on the Board of Governors for Southeast Missouri State University.
Q2) I will continue fighting to prevent taxpayer money from supporting countries like China by working to pass the Foreign Adversary Divestment Act. I would also like to keep working to expand the MOScholars program to ensure more Missouri families have educational options for their children. In addition, I will keep working to ensure more people across our state are aware of the unclaimed property program and receive the money that they are due.
Q3) I believe this country is the greatest in the world, and I am so proud to call myself an American.
• Mark Osmack (D)
Q1) As a fourth-generation Missourian, Army combat veteran (two Afghanistan tours), Bronze Star recipient and having grown up in a trailer park, truly knowing Missouri with all our challenges, accomplishments and boundless potential is what makes this campaign special. After serving as an artillery officer in Afghanistan, I used the GI Bill to earn a master’s degree in public administration and worked for congressional members and the House Armed Services Committee, focusing on appropriations and fiscal policies. As a husband and father of two young kids with a third due in February, protecting and bring more families to Missouri are my concern.
Q2) 1: Initiate a program called Missouri Agriculture for Missouri Kids. This would require (when fiscally responsible) Missouri agriculture to be used in Missouri school meals. The meals served should be made with Missouri crops. Additionally, no child should go without meals. A truly great state ensures school children have free, quality, Missouri-made meals. 2: Create a program to address daycare shortages and accessibility gaps. 3: Redeploy the Missouri National Guard and Highway Patrol from Texas to Missouri. 4: Modernize and proactively return unclaimed property and hire veterans to return lost military medals. 5: Champion increasing Missouri teacher pay.
Q3) As a combat veteran, husband, father and native Missourian, I know our challenges are not at the Texas/Mexico border. They are within our state. Unfortunately, that does not seem to be the focus of the current administration. The only state I am concerned with is Missouri. We have sadly been led astray and so, I will bring the discipline and focus learned in the Army and as a father to Jefferson City and the treasurer’s office … because both sorely need it. I hope you’ll join me.
• John A. Hartwig, Jr. (L) – Candidate did not respond.
• Reagn Haase (G) – Candidate could not be reached.
ATTORNEY GENERAL
• Andrew Bailey (R)*
Q1) I am a decorated combat veteran, father of four, prosecutor and constitutional conservative who fights for the people of Missouri as the 44th Attorney General. Following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, I was commissioned as an officer in the Army. For my service, I was awarded two Army Achievement Medals, an Army Commendation Medal, a Combat Action Badge and two Bronze Stars. I served as an assistant attorney general, assistant prosecuting attorney for the Warren County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and as general counsel for the Missouri Department of Corrections. In 2019, I joined the governor’s office and served as general counsel.
Q2) I want to make Missouri the safest state in the nation, securing a legacy of freedom, safety and prosperity for generations to come. In my first full term as attorney general, I plan to focus on public safety, consumer protection and protecting from federal overreach.
Q3) I am the only candidate in this race supported by the state’s major law enforcement organizations, backed by the Missouri Fraternal Order of Police, Missouri State Troopers Association, Law Enforcement Legislative Coalition (Police Chiefs) and the Missouri Sheriffs Association. Vote for me on Nov. 5 for a safer Missouri.
• Elad Jonathan Gross (D)
Q1) I previously served as an assistant attorney general of Missouri. I have since litigated major cases fighting government corruption and protecting Missourians’ civil liberties. We need a watchdog for the people back in the office of attorney general.
Q2) 1: Sue scammers, including those in government. I will enforce the Do Not Call List, start a Public Corruption Unit at the office, and start Missouri’s first Civil Rights Division to protect workers and keep government out of our private lives. 2: Protect families. I will start Missouri’s first coordinated effort to prevent violent crime. I will protect our land, air and water and hold the federal government accountable for poisoning our state with radioactive waste. I will enforce antitrust law to stop big corporations from exploiting Missourians. 3: End Missouri’s status as the puppy mill capital of the country.”
Q3) You deserve to have an attorney general who represents you, not big donors, big government or their own big ambitions. I will make sure you see where every one of your tax dollars goes. Missouri will have a responsive and responsible watchdog in government once again. You won’t have to wonder whether your attorney general has your back. I will.
• Ryan L. Munro (L) – Candidate did not respond.
STATE SENATOR • District 15
• David Gregory (R)
Q1) I am the common sense choice for this office with a track record of action to prove it. I have never relied solely on my “elected office” to fight for common sense policies. Instead, I am constantly leveraging my skills as a litigation attorney to get things done. I sued Sam Page twice: once to reopen churches during COVID, and more recently to get seniors the tax breaks they deserve. A personal passion of mine is locating and suing animal abusers. One of my lawsuits against an animal abuser resulted in a landmark $1.3 million judgment.
Q2) As a husband and new father, I’m focused on common sense policies that save St. Louis. My “Save St. Louis Plan” starts with safety. I will ensure our police have the compensation, resources and equipment they need to recruit and retain good officers. This plan also includes a specialized police force designed to assist local police with the arrest and prosecution of violent criminals. Under this plan, there will be no doubt violent criminals will be caught and will be prosecuted. The “Save St. Louis Plan” will be engaged in bringing high-paying jobs back to St. Louis.
Q3) Get excited. Real results and real accountability are coming. Together, we are going to save St. Louis and make our communities safe and economically attractive. I am asking for your vote for state Senate and look forward to serving you.
• Joe Pereles (D)
Q1) I am a retired attorney, businessman and a long-time volunteer with the Red Cross. I spent decades as the general counsel and hotel development lead for Drury Hotels based in St. Louis. In that role, I negotiated job-creating transactions with stakeholders in communities across the country. For almost 40 years, I have volunteered with the Red Cross, serving in international, national and local positions. I am a member of the local Disaster Action Team, which responds on the scene of disasters including storms, fires or floods. I work with my team members to provide victims of disasters with immediate assistance like shelter or financial aid. My experience in business and community service have taught me to listen, build consensus and get things done. In the Missouri state Senate, I will use this experience to restore common sense and pass policies that work for everyday Missourians.
Q2) My top priorities in the legislature will be improving public safety, fully funding and supporting public education and restoring reproductive rights.
Q3) I have lived in Chesterfield for over 30 years. I know the St. Louis community and the challenges that we face; that’s why I’ve been endorsed by local mayors, including Mayor Bob Nation of Chesterfield, Mayor Mike Clement of Manchester and Mayor Tim Pogue of Ballwin. If elected, I will lead with common sense and commitment to our community. I have no interest in furthering my own political interests and will not seek higher office.
• Jeff Coleman (L)
Q1) Member of the St. Louis County Central Libertarian Committee since 2008. Reelected in 2024 as Chesterfield Township Committeeman. Member of Missouri Libertarian Party State Committee and Executive Committee. 2024 National Libertarian Convention delegate. Social media influencer as “Jeff Coleman Missouri Delegate” with over two million views.
Q2) 1: Pursue a constitutional amendment to block the Missouri General Assembly from revising or repealing any statute proposed by initiative petition within five years following its approval by Missouri voters. 2: Devise ballot candy that convinces voters to claw back the rights they are poised to surrender in Amendment 7. 3: Launch an investigation of the Missouri Constitution to determine whether it is the most appropriate venue to regulate female jurors, blind pension funds and bingo games.
Q3) (no response provided)
STATE REPRESENTATIVE • District 71
• LaDonna Appelbaum (D)*
STATE REPRESENTATIVE • District 87
• John Rommel (R)
Q1) I am not a career politician, but rather, an engaged citizen who has spent my life in Missouri as an informed voter with empathy and understanding of those around me. I am a graduate of Eureka High School, University of Missouri and Saint Louis University School of Law. I am now employed as an attorney fighting for justice for the people of Missouri each and every day.
Q2) My top priority is protecting conservative values as I am pro-life, pro-gun and pro-military. I believe Missourians desire to live, work and worship without government interference and overreach. I will work to protect the unborn, preserve the Second Amendment and support our veterans and first responders.
Q3) Current policies have led to open borders with national security concerns, high inflation, increased crime and the indoctrination of our kids. We must secure the border, prohibit the sale of land to China, freeze property taxes, balance the budget, crack down on crime, empower parents with school choice and keep radical ideologies out of our schools.
• Connie Steinmetz (D) – Candidate did not respond.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE • District 88
• Holly Jones (R)* – Candidate did not respond.
• Kyle Luzynski (D) – Candidate did not respond.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE • District 89
• George Hruza (R)
Q1) In addition to being a skin cancer surgeon taking care of Missouri residents for more than 30 years, I am a small-business owner with an MBA. I know how to create jobs and meet a payroll. I am an accomplished leader as evidenced by the trust many physicians have placed in me by electing me to the leadership of five medical organizations (president) including the American Academy of Dermatology, Missouri State Medical Association and St. Louis Metropolitan Medical Society. I have advocated for patients and physicians for more than 20 years in Washington, D.C., and in Jefferson City with numerous successes. After 11 years at Washington University as an associate professor, I am currently an adjunct professor at Saint Louis University.
Q2) 1: Public safety. We have to support and respect our police. Criminals should be arrested, prosecuted and, if convicted, serve time in prison. I have been endorsed by the St. Louis City, St. Louis County and Missouri Fraternal Order of Police. 2: Economic success for Missouri. Reduce taxes and red tape along with robust workforce development for high-paying jobs that are in demand. I have been endorsed by the National Federation of Small Businesses. 3: I will focus on bringing affordable, accessible, high-quality, compassionate healthcare to Missourians at all stages of life using free-market principles. 4: Education transparency and choice. All students should have access to high-quality education free of efforts at social engineering.
Q3) I grew up in communist Czechoslovakia, escaped from there with my parents and arrived in New York with a suitcase and no English. I became a dermatologist and ultimately president of the American Academy of Dermatology, which would not be possible in any other country in the world. I am living the American dream, running on individual liberty, responsibility and opportunity to make sure our children have that same opportunity that made America the best nation in the world.
• Eric Morse (D)
Q1) What are the most important qualifications for state representative? Passion and empathy. As a single father of four kids, raised by teachers and currently working in education, I understand better than most the importance of safeguarding our children, restoring our basic freedoms and investing in our communities. I was born and raised in the 89th District and I returned to give my kids access to the same amazing childhood I enjoyed here. I understand this community, I am a product of this community and I am uniquely adept at bringing people together to improve our community.
Q2) Protect our children, restore our rights and improve opportunity. This country was built upon the right of self-determination, and today in Missouri, abortion bans, trans bans and book bans are infringing on our constitutional rights and driving people away. The extremist legislature has actively promoted the proliferation of firearms without providing for safety regulation. Small businesses can’t flourish here because of brain drain. I will bring back jobs in healthcare by reinvesting in mental health and elder care. I will repeal draconian limits on personal freedoms, and I will fight to make St. Louis County safer for our children.
Q3) Unlike my opponent, I grew up here. These neighborhoods made me who I am, and I am uniquely able to promote the needs of the 89th District in Jefferson City. I’m a parent, not a politician, and this isn’t about me; this is about making a safer, more equitable and more promising tomorrow for my kids. The desire for freedom, safety and opportunity transcend party lines, and I have found that Missourians of all political stripes can unite behind one of their own who is fighting for them.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE • District 90
• Scott Mathewson (R) – Candidate could not be reached.
• Mark Boyko (D)
Q1) I am in my second term on the Kirkwood School Board, where we have improved test scores and student outcomes, lowered the tax rate, improved our financial reserves, reduced class sizes, raised teacher and staff pay, and expanded pre-K and need-based financial assistance. By trade, I’m a lawyer who represents workers and retirees protecting their pensions and 401(k) plans from Wall Street and corporate abuse.
Q2) Properly funding education, removing barriers to accessing healthcare and making Missouri a state people are proud to live in, and want to move to, are the most effective ways to improve our economy, access to jobs and quality of life.
Q3) My campaign has donated $8,000 to local nonprofits supporting area students and teachers instead of spending that amount sending out junk mail.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE • District 98
• Carol Veillette (R)
Q1) Serving in the Marines prepares you with a lot of opportunities. Leadership, team player, decision-making, challenges and a passion for our country. For the past 20 years, I have served as vice president and president in both political and secular clubs. Served as a poll worker up to a roving deputy for years with the Election Board. I’ve also volunteered and worked in grassroots for the last 12 years for organizations, state senators, state representatives and school board candidates. My greatest achievement is my family. Married for 46 years, three children and seven grandchildren.
Q2) 1: Veterans. I have a heart for Veterans and I will advocate for them. Stand with them as they once stood for us. Making sure they are provided for first and foremost over illegal immigrants. I hope to serve on the Veterans Committee. 2: Law enforcement. I am honored to have been endorsed by the St. Louis County Lodge 111 Fraternal Order of Police. I will stand with them in making sure they have the training, tools and resources needed to keep our families and communities safe. 3: More money in our pockets. Reducing our tax burdens, cap property taxes and stop pork spending.
Q3) I will always have an open door policy to listen to you, the constituents. We have a lot of work to do. Like reducing government overreach, supporting paper ballots, accountability and that’s just to name a few. So let’s roll up our sleeves and work together in unity. This election isn’t just the most important election, it’s consequential! Consequential with consequences. I will represent you. Work for you. I need you to work with me. I respectfully and humbly ask for your vote on Nov. 5 for Carol Veillette.
• Jaclyn Zimmermann (D)
Q1) I am a lifelong resident of Missouri and have lived in the 98th District for over 13 years. My husband and I have raised my three sons here, who all attend Parkway schools. I am an attorney and small business owner. I think my legal experience, as well as my roots in this community, qualify me for the job.
Q2) My top three priorities are improving public schools, improving access to affordable healthcare, including reproductive healthcare, and gun safety.
Q3) (no response provided)
STATE REPRESENTATIVE • District 100
• Philip Oehlerking (R)*
Q1) For the last two years, I’ve been proud to serve you. We passed sweeping tax cuts and reduced government spending to help control inflation, increased funding for our public schools and gave our teachers the largest pay raise in decades, started new infrastructure improvement projects and increased funding for our police to help reduce crime. I led the charge and passed the senior property tax freeze, and won’t stop until St. Louis County implements it. With a proven record of effective governance and a deep commitment to public service, I am ready to continue working for you to ensure West County is the best place to live, work and raise a family.
Q2) Education. I believe every child should have access to a quality education. That means ensuring our public schools are well-funded and our teachers are paid well. I’ll continue to work to find ways to improve academic performance for all our students to thrive. Safe communities start with investing in our police and ensuring they have the resources to keep us safe, crack down on drugs and violent crime. Taxes have become too high for our families and small businesses. I’ll continue to fight to ensure your taxes stay low, personal and real estate property tax reform, and lower your income and sales tax.
Q3) Serving you for the last two years has been the honor of my life. I’ve prioritized people over politics, collaboration with both sides of the aisle to ensure we have good and effective government. Together, we have passed impactful legislation including tax cuts, reduced government spending, crucial infrastructure improvements and increased funding for our law enforcement. I’ve championed initiatives in education, workforce development and property tax reform to ensure a prosperous future for all. I am the only candidate in this race endorsed by the police and firefighters, the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Association.
• Colin Lovett (D)
Q1) I’m a dad, a husband and have lived in Ballwin most of my life. With experience in healthcare, education, nonprofit management and small business, I understand practical solutions and being responsible with money. I hold a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and business administration and an MBA from UMSL. As an Eagle Scout and lifelong Missourian, I value hard work and integrity. In the 2022 election, I came within 181 votes of flipping District 100, proving our message resonates. My background equips me to effectively address healthcare access, education funding, workers’ rights and equality, making meaningful change for Missouri.
Q2) Healthcare access: Ensuring every Missourian has affordable and quality healthcare, including protecting reproductive freedom and legalizing abortion. Protecting your freedom to make medical decisions with your families and doctors – not government. Safe communities: Support police and first responders, prevent gun violence while respecting the Second Amendment. Education: Investing public dollars in public schools, ensuring fair pay for teachers, expanded early childhood and community college funding and post-K-12 job training. Read the fine print – Republicans didn’t fully fund teacher pay raises. And who defunds libraries? Workers’ rights: Fair wages, earned sick leave, safe working conditions and the right to unionize.
Q3) As an openly gay and dedicated family man, I’m passionate about building a more inclusive Missouri. I will serve my community by representing you in Jefferson City as a voice of reason, protecting the dignity and rights of all Missourians, and inspiring hope that Missouri’s future can be brighter than its past. I know we all have more in common than we have setting us apart. My campaign is about more than winning a seat; it’s about representing the voices of all Missourians. Please join me in this journey to bring meaningful change and progress to Missouri as a whole.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE • District 101
• Ben Keathley (R)*
Q1) I am a lawyer serving families and small businesses in Chesterfield. I grew up in Chesterfield. I went to Rockwood schools, served two terms on the Chesterfield City Council, chaired our city’s Public Safety Committee and have served as your state representative for the past two years. I loved growing up in our community. That is why I am raising my children here, started my business here and why I want to continue serving you as your state representative.
Q2) 1: Inflation and taxes are crushing families and businesses. I sponsored the senior property tax freeze, a grocery sales tax exemption and successfully prohibited governments from taxing your streaming services to alleviate sky rocketing costs and make government more efficient. 2: As a former Rockwood student and son of a Rockwood teacher, I have worked to ensure all Missourians have access to quality education by fully funding public schools, increasing teacher pay and empowering families by expanding educational opportunities. 3: Public safety is essential to both families and business development. Depriving police of precious resources imperils families and drives business out of the region. I will always support those who keep us safe.
Q3) I am a proven leader for our community. I was successful in passing tax cut legislation to make everyday living costs more affordable and improving education opportunities for our children. I led the charge to raise teacher pay, and I also sponsored major legislation to limit sales taxes on necessities, control skyrocketing property tax assessments, and eliminate taxes on your streaming services. I will continue to dedicate myself to rising above a toxic political culture to deliver meaningful solutions for your family and business.
• Jacqueline Cotton (D)
Q1) I’ve run a small business in the manufacturing industry for over 25 years, have volunteered in my community for many years, and at Planned Parenthood. I am passionate about the rights of women, healthcare and education. My late husband, Robert, and I raised two daughters here in Missouri and want them to have the same rights we had.
Q2) My top three priorities are to return reproductive rights to women and safeguard them, make healthcare available and affordable to all and to work towards better education for the children of Missouri by funding teachers and our public schools, not private schools.
Q3) Right-wing extremism has taken over Missouri and our rights have been removed. I will help to prevent our state from the consequences of the Republican super-majority and allow Missourians to be heard once again. Missouri voters should be heard and not ignored. There is a history of voters’ wishes being overturned by the Republicans. That is wrong and cannot be allowed to continue. Please vote for democracy and 100% Cotton!
STATE REPRESENTATIVE • District 110
• Justin Sparks (R)*
Q1) I served as a police officer and sergeant with the St. Louis County Police for nearly 15 years before ending my career as a deputized United States Marshall Task Force officer. Leading and supervising police officers in the apprehension of high-risk fugitives provided invaluable leadership skill development.
Q2) I sponsored Valentine’s Law which makes aggravated fleeing from police a felony offense. I will continue to sponsor legislation that makes a real and verifiable impact on the safety of our neighborhoods. I will continue to sponsor legislation that protects our children – both born and unborn. I will also continue to sponsor legislation that lowers taxes and provides an environment within our state that is conducive to economic growth and prosperity.
Q3) I am a man of integrity and I believe that in many ways politicians have grown much too comfortable in our Capitol. These politicians have forgotten whom they serve and why. I hope to lead my colleagues back to a place where the will of the people reigns supreme and a spirit of service and sacrifice once again becomes the order of the day. I have discovered that this is not an easy task, but it is worth it, and God-willing we will continue to bring truth and transparency back to Jefferson City.
• Josh Thackston (D)
Q1) I have a strong background in public service, including six years as a high school math teacher, where I saw firsthand the challenges facing our education system. My years of involvement in community service have fueled my commitment to helping others and improving our community. I am dedicated to improving education, healthcare and economic opportunities for all Missourians. My passion for serving others and making a positive impact drives me to represent District 110 effectively.
Q2) Education: Investing in public schools, supporting teachers and expanding early childhood education. Healthcare: Lowering prescription drug costs, expanding Medicaid, and ensuring mental health services are accessible. Economic opportunity: Creating good-paying jobs, supporting small businesses and investing in infrastructure improvements to boost local economies.
Q3) I bring a wide range of experience as a husband, father, former public-school teacher and corporate professional. I understand the importance of strong public education, safe neighborhoods, economic opportunities and creating a state our kids will be proud to live in as adults. I’m dedicated to advocating for policies that improve everyone’s quality of life and believe in listening to and working with all community members. Together, we can drive positive change for our district and our state. I’m ready to put my experience to work for you.