However, after President Truman, one man stands above all the rest. Christopher S. “Kit” Bond. 

You can find a litany of his accomplishments in his many obituaries published around the state, but when I think of Kit Bond I think of more than his resume. 

He was a larger than life figure. Missouri ran through his veins. His every word, his every action, literally everything about him exuded a love for Missouri. 

Kit Bond left such an indelible mark on this state and our politics that years after he left public office doing the right thing for the state even if it was hard, thinking long term, bringing Missourian’s tax dollars home to invest in Missourian’s communities, to this day, is an extension of the legacy Kit Bond. 

He was the man who didn’t preen and peacock about what he was doing, he was the man who produced. 

You can have all the Twitter populism you want, but you have to produce or none of it really matters. 

Kit Bond produced. 

You can be any place in this state from Caruthersville to Rock Port, from Pineville to Kahoka and you cannot drive more than a half hour in any direction without finding a bridge, a yard of water pipe, a runway, a mile of road, a sewage plant, or a facility at a college that Kit Bond didn’t have a role in building. 

Kit Bond was more than a Governor or a Senator. His accomplishments were so vast, his impact was so immense that he became more the legacy of the love and dedication to Missouri that lives on more than a single man who no longer does. 

That legacy lived on in his successor Roy Blunt. Imagine filling those shoes, imagine being entrusted to maintain and carry forth that legacy. 

Senator Blunt did, and today you can see that same legacy continuing on this year when his successor Senator Schmitt brought home the latest fighter wing to Missouri. 

Speaking of that legacy of putting Farmington over Fox News, putting Tarkio over Twitter, Innsbrook over Facebook. Kit Bond’s legacy continues on in this state, not by the loudest in the room, or the most obnoxious social media account, but by accomplishing real things for the people of the state of Missouri. 

It was fitting that Senators Lincoln Hough and Justin Brown were on the Senate floor fighting for places in Missouri like the hospital in Salem and the crime lab in Poplar Bluff when the news of Kit’s passing broke. 

They were on the senate floor continuing his legacy of working on the real things that improve the lives of real Missourians… the Kit Bond type things. 

I have my own Kit Bond story. First, Highway 67 would still be a goat trail without Kit Bond and his amazing district representative, Tom Schulte. However, that was the type of thing Kit did so many times all over the state. 

On a more personal note it was the fall of the first year after founding The Missouri Times that I was at an event with Senator Bond. We stepped off to the side and shared a drink, told a few jokes, and made a plan to meet later in the month. 

Well, later that night I was emptying my jacket pockets and found a personal check from Kit Bond and in the memo he wrote subscription. The check was for far more than a subscription. I was so honored I hesitated to deposit it, but I’ve never forgotten it. 

State Auditor, the 47th and 49th Governor of Missouri and United States Senator are all impressive titles, but to me Kit Bond was and now will forever be more than those titles. 

His is a legacy that embodies putting Missouri over oneself, and above all, loving Missouri more than anything else. 

Kit Bond was the best of us, and to this day inspires so many others carry his legacy forward.

Scott Faughn

Scott Faughn is the publisher of The Missouri Times, owner of the Clayton Times in Clayton; SEMO Times in Poplar Bluff; and host of the only statewide political television show, This Week in Missouri Politics.

The post TWMP Column: Kit Bond was the best of us appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“I am excited to meet with voters across the city to hear their ideas on how to keep Lee’s Summit on the right path to prosperity,” stated Rader. “During my first term on city council, I’ve realized there is so much work that needs to be done at the mayoral level.”

Highlighted in Rader’s announcement video, support for first responders is a top priority for the campaign, alongside improved infrastructure of major highways. With a determined effort involving cooperation with the city’s business and civic leaders, she plans to foster sustainable job growth and responsible economic development in Lee’s Summit. She also aims to bring a vision of inclusion with all facets of public and private entities coming together to strengthen the future of our city.

“We must carefully consider the long term impacts the city government’s decisions have on our citizens. There’s no room for big egos or entitled mindsets in the mayor’s office. Lee’s Summit needs civic-minded, people-oriented leadership that will listen to and respect constituents and work together as a city council to provide quality service to our city.”

Outside of public service, Rader is a proud mother of three and grandmother of four. As an accomplished local Realtor, builder and developer, and owner of The Cynda Sells Real Estate Company, she knows how to navigate the red tape of doing business in the city and hopes to alleviate the struggles families are facing in the current housing market. Additionally, she aims to attract new industry, manufacturing, and Class A business to create jobs which will allow our citizens to really Live, Work and Stay in Lee’s Summit.

The election for mayor will take place in April 2026.

The post Press Release: Councilwoman Cynda Rader launches campaign for Lee’s Summit mayor appeared first on The Missouri Times.

This session the Missouri General Assembly is being asked to consider passing legislation that could affect the state’s most prominent industry, that being agriculture. Whether it be ending the sunset on various agricultural tax credits, or legislation to help bring affordable healthcare to those in rural Missouri, the state’s Ag industry is asking legislators to address serious issues this year. 

One of those issues is the regulation/labeling of glyphosate products, mainly Roundup. 

Glyphosate is an essential herbicide for Missouri’s agriculture, playing a vital role in helping farmers effectively control weeds and boost crop production. According to one study, 91% of Missouri soybean farmers use glyphosate as well as 66% of Missouri’s corn farmers. 

With rising demand for food and the challenges posed by invasive weed species, many farmers in the state rely on glyphosate to keep their fields productive and ensure food supplies are secure for local and national markets. The herbicide’s effectiveness in managing a variety of weeds has made it a go-to option for many, allowing farmers to maximize their yields and lower production costs. 

While many voices express concerns about the dangers of glyphosate, it’s important to recognize the extensive research and evaluation that underpin its approval by the US 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for safety and efficacy. 

The EPA’s endorsement is based on thorough scientific reviews that assess glyphosate’s effects on human health and the environment, considering factors such as toxicity and exposure levels. Following rigorous testing protocols, the EPA has concluded that glyphosate does not pose significant risks when used according to label instructions. 

Despite ongoing debates about its safety, the EPA’s continued support highlights glyphosate’s essential role in modern agriculture and pest management, reassuring users of its responsible use and effectiveness.

The major concern that has been raised is based on a study published by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) which classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” in 2015. The study came to this conclusion based on “limited evidence” of cancer in humans and “sufficient evidence” in experimental animals. 

The study has been criticized for some of its conclusions due to several factors. 

First, the IARC focused primarily on limited data sources, which some experts argue did not encompass all relevant scientific studies, potentially leading to incomplete assessments of glyphosate’s safety. 

Additionally, critics have pointed out that the methods used to classify glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” relied heavily on animal studies and epidemiological data that were not uniformly robust. 

Furthermore, the IARC’s approach to risk assessment was seen as diverging from regulatory agencies, which often consider a broader range of data and the weight of evidence. 

As a result, the findings have led to significant debate and concern among scientists, health professionals, and industry stakeholders regarding the actual risks posed by glyphosate.

Despite the concerns over the accuracy of the study, the study opened the door to lawsuits against Bayer and the RoundUp product.

RoundUp has seen serious lawsuits brought against it for supposedly causing cancer. Bayer, the company that acquired Monsanto which is responsible for RoundUp, has committed to paying $10.9 billion to resolve thousands of Roundup-related lawsuits, with around 165,000 lawsuits already filed and more than 60,000 additional cases still pending. 

One case here in Cole County, Missouri saw a jury award each plaintiff $500 million in punitive damages as well as $5.6 million and $38 million in compensatory damages. The end of the trial led to Bayer paying a combined $1.56 billion to three individuals who claimed their cancer was caused by the weed killer Roundup. 

While the jury and others like them across the country may have sided with the plaintiffs, in the end juries don’t decide science. 

As concerns grow over potential restrictions on herbicides like glyphosate, many farmers are understandably worried that limiting its use could make weed management more challenging and adversely affect their yields. 

Farmers know all too well how difficult it can be to maintain productivity without the right tools. This proposed bill addresses those concerns directly, aiming not only to recognize glyphosate’s significant economic importance but also to highlight its role in protecting crops from diseases and supporting overall food sustainability. 

By securing access to glyphosate, Missouri farmers can mitigate risks related to crop loss and maintain a steady supply of food, which is vital for both state and national food security.

Additionally, there is a pressing national security angle to consider. The Chinese Communist Party has been making moves to gain a stronghold on the glyphosate market, which poses a potential threat to U.S. agriculture.

In 2015, China produced over 800,000 metric tons of glyphosate which accounted for nearly 70% of the world’s glyphosate production. Since then Chinese production of glyphosate has decreased, in 2021 it still managed to produce 760,000 metric tons which accounted for 60% of global glyphosate creation. 

Chinese domination of glyphosate production could create dependencies that would pose serious risks for American farmers and the food security of the entire nation. In this context, protecting glyphosate use in Missouri could be even more urgent, highlighting the need for the U.S. to maintain its independence in agriculture and to strengthen local farming practices. 

This is not just about ensuring that farmers have access to the chemicals they need; it’s about safeguarding the entire agricultural infrastructure of the country from foreign control.

Whether or not the legislation passes through the Missouri General Assembly, it’s clear that this bill will affect Missouri’s top industry and possibly national security. 

The post Roundup Resistance: Glyphosate’s Role in Missouri Ag and America’s Food Security appeared first on The Missouri Times.

Redd works for Commerce Bank and is a commercial pilot. In addition, he is a small business owner of Palmyra Storage and is involved in his family’s farming operation.

“We have a lot of positive things happening in Marion County and I would like to keep that momentum going,” said Redd. “Taxpayers want government to run like a business; I am committed to ensuring that our county’s finances and infrastructure are in working order as a good steward of taxpayer dollars. Ultimately, those funds belong to we the people and elected officials should have long-range vision for how to use those funds in an appropriate way.”

Redd has served as the past president of the Hannibal Rotary Club and has been actively involved with several local organizations. Additionally, Redd has held board positions with the Hannibal Area Chamber of Commerce, Hannibal Regional Foundation, Palmyra School Board, Northeast Missouri Economic Development Council, Hannibal Regional Healthcare System Center for Applied Medical Research and Beth Haven Nursing Home.

“I am excited about President Trump’s America First efforts and what that could mean for manufacturing and jobs here in Northeast Missouri,” said Redd. “I will fight for continued job growth in our communities.”

The father of two adult children, Redd has been married to Kindsey Redd for 24 years. As a born-again Christian, Redd puts his faith first in his personal life.

“We need to continue to focus on fiscal responsibility in the courthouse and meet the county’s most basic needs – good roads and bridges. Together, we can work together to ensure our entire county has utilities, roads and other infrastructure to meet growing needs. This helps keep our families, farms and small businesses vibrant for years to come.”

The post Press Release: Darin Redd announces campaign for Marion County Presiding Commissioner appeared first on The Missouri Times.

The post Election in Night Missouri – Full Episode (Live 11/5/24) appeared first on The Missouri Times.

A proven conservative, Baeza has continuously promoted policies that align with the rural Missouri values of the county in an effort to keep big government out of the day-to-day lives of constituents. From increasing infrastructure maintenance to maintaining low property tax rates across the county, Baeza’s record boasts many victories that he hopes to continue into a second term.

“When I was elected, the citizens made it clear that they were ready for a new way of doing business,” stated Baeza. “We have since delivered results by putting the interest of our citizens first, where they belong. From day one, I made it a top priority to listen to my constituents and be involved in our community. We have worked hard to be accessible and have committed to be available 24/7.”

In addition to fighting unregulated landfills and serving as a strong voice for his district, Baeza strives to continue building on the successes of his administration to increase services to county residents.

“While maintaining fiscal responsibility, we have implemented the most aggressive road & bridge plan in the history of Pettis County, making sure that our farm-to-market roads are open for business. We have maintained low property taxes and kept government small, protecting and respecting the taxpayers.”

Baeza made it clear to his supporters that he will continue to “work his heart out” to keep their confidence and continue to be a true representative of the people: “We will win this election the old fashion way, going door to door and listening to the issues important to our county residents.”

Israel Baeza is the loving husband to Perla and father of two young children. The couple enjoys raising their children in Pettis County and are active members of the Hispanic Baptist Church of Sedalia. Baeza will appear on the Republican primary ballot on August 6th.

The post Press Release: Conservative Republican Israel Baeza to run for re-election as Pettis County Eastern Commissioner appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“My motivation to run for school board starts with our young daughter,” stated Blake. “I want to ensure that she—and all our students—are receiving the best possible education. The job market is becoming increasingly competitive as technology continues to evolve. We need to equip students with skill sets that will empower them to live successful lives post-graduation.”

Blake is a mechanical engineer with over 20 years of experience in the commercial and manufacturing industry. He is well known for leading dynamic, fast-paced engineering and construction teams focused on creating value and maximizing capital budgets on builds such as food plants, data centers, and commercial buildings. As an account manager with Kansas City’s top engineering and construction firm, he effectively oversees business upwards of $100 million annually. Now, he hopes to bring his personal brand of efficiency to the school board.

“I’ve never run for public office before, so campaigning is all new to me. However, I believe that education is the great equalizer. We cannot determine a child’s various situational factors, but we can ensure that they are given a chance to thrive with proper instruction and opportunities. To that end, we must continue to prioritize STEM curriculum, trade school and academic rigor, as well as keep divisive politics out of our classrooms. I look forward to meeting voters and hearing their concerns firsthand. Communication is the key to any well-functioning organization—especially the school board.”

Campaign priorities for Blake include empowering families to have access to the specific educational needs for their children and continuing to recruit and retain quality teachers in the district. Likewise, he hopes to reduce burdensome bureaucratic red tape and increase transparency on the school board. Fiscal responsibility is another top issue for Blake.

“I want to ensure the school district is using our tax dollars as efficiently as we would be expected to use funds in the private sector; financial management is something I do daily in my career. Budgets must be balanced and waste must be cut. We should be prioritizing our valuable educators and vital resources to enhance student learning. I know that including the community in the important decisions our school board has to make will foster trust and accountability. Apathy and dishonesty from those within our organization undermine the goal of public education: to prepare our students for success in life. I will not allow either to work against our LSR7 families and will strive to defend our community values each and every day.”

To connect with Dan Blake’s campaign, please visit www.DanBlake4LSR7.com. 

The post Press Release: Businessman Dan Blake enters Lee’s Summit school board race appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“Judge Crane has served our community with distinction for over 30 years,” Osete said. “His devotion to the administration of justice and the rule of law is the kind I intend to bring to the bench for many years to come.”

Named an influential lawyer by Missouri Lawyers Media, Osete is currently in private practice, where he handles high-profile disputes in state and federal courts across the country. Osete previously served as Deputy Attorney General, where he advocated for Missourians’ interests before the U.S. Supreme Court. Osete also served as General Counsel to the Secretary of State, worked in the U.S. Senate, and completed clerkships for judges on both the Missouri Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.

“Only in America can the immigrant grandson of a mechanic have the opportunity to uphold the Constitution at the highest court in the land,” Osete said. “In the coming months, I look forward to persuading voters why they should give me the opportunity to uphold the Constitution as a judge.”

Osete has a law degree from Washington University in St. Louis, where he served as Senior Executive Editor of the Washington University Law Review. He and his wife reside in Columbia with their two children. They attend Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Osete is an alumni of the Missouri Bar’s leadership academy, and an active member in various local organizations. He is also a sought-after speaker on the U.S. Supreme Court.

For more information, please visit OseteforJudge.com.

The post Press Release: Former Deputy Attorney General Jesus Osete announces candidacy for 13th Judicial Circuit, Division 3 appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“Serving Clay County has been an honor that I hope to continue for another four years,” stated Akin. “Under my leadership, we’ve seen strong public safety partnerships, improved collaboration with community partners, and good recruitment rates. I hope to build upon these achievements to ensure Clay County remains a safe place to call home.”

An Army Veteran, he received several medals and ribbons for his roles as a Parachute Rigger and UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopter Pilot. After his honorable discharge, Akin moved to law enforcement and eventually planted his roots in Clay County in 2013.

During his time in the sheriff’s office, he has served in roles such as 911 communications manager, community and media relations, crime analysis, emergency management, and the chaplain program before being elected sheriff in 2020. Akin is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Senior Management Institute for Police, and the National Sheriffs’ Institute. He is involved with the National Sheriffs’ Association, Missouri Sheriffs’ Association, Western States Sheriffs’ Association, International Association of Chiefs or Police, FBI National Academy Associates, and is the current president of the Metropolitan Chiefs and Sheriffs Association.

“Public safety is truly my life’s calling. I believe in protecting the innocent and holding bad actors accountable. The role of law enforcement is not to punish but to protect, and I ensure that mindset is evident in the culture we have cultivated in my office. I am proud of the work we’ve done over the past three years, and I look forward to continuing to improve our services for the county.”

Akin’s goals for the county include advanced training opportunities for deputy and civilian employees, ensuring funds are used efficiently for emergency services, increased coordination with city police departments and neighboring county sheriffs’ offices, and competitive recruitment strategies to keep the ranks strong in Clay County.

“My role as sheriff is not just crime fighting, it is strategic planning to ensure future sheriffs and deputies inherit a well-functioning, well-equipped office that is ready to tackle crime in the modern age. That means proper training, tested protocols, and reliable technology. So far, we have made this possible with support from the county government. I will continue to build a strong relationship with our county commissioners to ensure emergency services are at peak performance.”

Will is the proud husband to Jennifer and loving father to three adult children. He enjoys spending his free time serving in various community organizations and finding ways to enrich the local community.

The post Press Release: Clay County Sheriff Will Akin to run for reelection appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“I am running as a Republican, but my position is strictly pro-public safety,” stated Holland. “In the Platte County Sheriff’s Office, we don’t have time to debate political preferences. We are far too busy working to prevent crime and keep our communities safe from bad actors. I pledge to remain a sheriff that is loyal first and foremost to upholding the law to keep Platte County safe.”

Holland has an impressive law enforcement background, a Juris Doctorate and Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution from the University of Missouri-Columbia. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and is a member of the Midwest Public Risk Board of Directors. Holland’s academic credentials are only the foundation of his experience.

“In the past 20+ years, I have served as a SWAT Team Commander, succeeded under pressure with the Crisis Negotiations Team, and have experience as a detective and patrol deputy. I believe that for the role of sheriff, experience is crucial, and I will use what I have learned in each position to promote public safety.”

Holland hopes to build upon the solid track record of Sheriff Owen to continue improving safety protocols in the area. From quick response times to enhancing officer resources, he is prepared to work with the County Commission to ensure Platte County retains a high quality of life.

“We are the fastest growing county in the state. That means we need to be at the top of our game to ensure residents feel secure in their homes, at their jobs, and out in the general public. As your sheriff, I will continue to work day and night to collaborate with neighboring sheriff’s departments, local police departments, and fellow agencies to keep crime rates low. Believe me, I want that just as much as anyone; my family lives here in Platte County, too, and I want to keep them safe just as every husband and father does.”

Holland is a loving husband, father, and grandfather who enjoys spending time with family whenever possible. A lifelong Missourian, he enjoys spending time exploring all the natural beauty and special local sites that Platte County has to offer.

Erik Holland has retained Axiom Strategies to serve as consultants on his campaign.

The post Press Release: Major Erik Holland announces effort to be the next Platte County Sheriff appeared first on The Missouri Times.