Missouri faces challenges that demand practical solutions, not political rhetoric. Unlike career politicians who often view issues through a political lens, I approach them as an engineer – seeking to fix problems and improve systems for the benefit of all Missourians, much like the approach taken by figures such as former Missouri leaders, including those who have served the state with distinction, such as John Ashcroft, Missouri‘s former Governor and Senator.
In 2016, I ran for Secretary of State on a platform of election integrity, and upon being elected, I immediately took action. My administration implemented key measures to bolster the security and trustworthiness of our elections. We instituted voter ID requirements, ensuring that every vote cast is legitimate and verifiable. Ballot drop boxes, which lack the same level of security as official polling locations, were banned. Furthermore, we prohibited private funding of election operations, maintaining public control and transparency. When the Biden Administration attempted to send armed federal agents to monitor our elections, a move that many saw as federal overreach, we stood firm and blocked their intervention, safeguarding Missouri’s sovereignty in election administration.
These decisive steps have positioned Missouri as a national leader in election integrity. Today, our state ranks among the Top 10 in the nation for secure and trustworthy elections, a testament to our commitment to upholding the democratic process.
Beyond election administration, the Secretary of State’s office also oversees Missouri’s public libraries and archives. Recognizing the importance of protecting children, I established new guidelines to shield young people from inappropriate content within taxpayer-funded library institutions. This initiative ensures that libraries remain safe and enriching environments for all Missourians, particularly our children.
Moreover, my responsibilities extend to the state’s securities industry. To protect Missourians’ financial futures, I implemented regulations requiring Wall Street money managers to transparently disclose to their clients when they prioritize woke ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investment strategies over maximizing financial returns for retirement savings. Missourians deserve to know if their financial futures are being influenced by political agendas rather than sound financial principles. Decisions about our money should be made by us, not by unelected bureaucrats, Wall Street bankers, or Washington lobbyists.
My commitment to Missouri extends to legislative action. I championed legislation to ban hostile foreign nations, including China, North Korea, Russia, Venezuela, and Iran, from purchasing Missouri land, protecting our state’s resources and security. Standing up for fairness in sports, I testified in support of preventing biological males from competing in female sports, ensuring a level playing field for female athletes. And as a staunch advocate for the sanctity of life, I have consistently fought for the right to life for every Missourian, both born and unborn.
The challenges facing Missouri are significant, but they are not insurmountable. However, addressing them requires a departure from the status quo. Electing career politicians who are products of the system will not bring about meaningful change. While I may not be the favored candidate of Jefferson City insiders and lobbyists, I possess a clear understanding of the obstacles hindering Missouri’s economic and population growth, job creation, educational improvement, and the establishment of safe communities throughout our state.
As an engineer, my focus is on solutions. I am a fixer. I am prepared to apply my “Red Print for Missouri” to address these challenges head-on, working tirelessly to build a stronger, more prosperous, and secure future for every Missourian.
