Missouri Senate
Coverage of Missouri Senate in the Nexus archive.
- Missouri senator running for majority leader loses GOP primary
Missouri state Sen. Curtis Trent lost the GOP primary to Lori Rook in the 20th Senate District, ending his bid for a second term and a potential Senate majority leader role. The primary reshaped the GOP caucus, with Rook criticizing Trent's establishment ties and policy positions. Other races included Jon Patterson defeating a challenger and Greg Sharpe winning despite opposition over his stance on a rejected tax proposal.
- VA clinical trial on psychedelic-assisted therapy gives Missouri lawmakers hope
Missouri lawmakers, including Rep. Dave Griffith, advocated for psychedelic-assisted therapy clinical trials to address veterans' PTSD and depression. A VA trial on MDMA-assisted therapy and President Trump's executive order to accelerate psychedelic research influenced their efforts, though legislation stalled in the Missouri Senate.
- Missouri bill aims to make it easier to dismiss lawsuits that punish public criticism
A Missouri bill sponsored by Sen. Mike Henderson aims to replace the state's current anti-SLAPP law with the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act to broaden protections against lawsuits targeting public speech. The bill passed the Missouri Senate and House and awaits Governor Mike Kehoe's approval to take effect in August 2024.
- Gov. Mike Kehoe’s decision on ballot timing could shape Missouri’s 2026 elections
Gov. Mike Kehoe must decide by Friday which of five constitutional amendments will appear on Missouri's August 4 primary ballot, a choice that could influence their passage and election turnout. Seven amendments are slated for 2026, with five eligible for August and others potentially appearing in November. The decision involves proposals on abortion restrictions, tax changes, and electoral reforms, with political consultants divided on optimal timing for voter impact.