December 20, 2011
Hall Parks at DED
A week or so ago I passed on the rumor that Missouri Technology Corporation’s Jason Hall would be the new director of the Department of Economic Development. The rumor makes sense when you look at the MTC board. See it Here. David Kerr, Dan Mehan, Greg Steinhoff, Garry Kemp, Donn Rubin, Joe Bannister…
This rumor picks up a little cred in my eyes with the report of one tipster that yesterday Hall parked at DED yesterday – in the director’s parking spot.
Thin stuff I know, but I give yas what I gots.
And
Re-live the Susan Montee – MTC audit tiff Here.
Riddle Announced
Rep. Jeanie Riddle did announce yesterday for Senate 7. In addition to the important geographic endorsements of Sens. Mike Kehoe, Dan Brown, and Brian Munzlinger, she also unveiled Sen. Ron Richard’s support.
Here’s Riddle opening statement from the press release: “My top priorities over my two terms in the legislature have been strengthening our education system, reducing the size of the government so businesses flourish, and protecting the sacred values of faith and family.”
And
One Republican observer cheers the development of Riddle running for senate and Rep. John Diehl coalescing as the consensus pick for Floor Leader. According to this view, that means that there won’t be money raised and wasted to try to lure votes for a contested leadership race. Rather the money can be spent more rationally to keep a strong Republican majority.
Republican Workouts Still to Be Worked Out
According to my survey, the House Republicans are down to just two situations where incumbents may potentially run against each other.
Left to be resolved is Reps. Casey Guernsey and Glen Klippenstein in northwest Missouri, and Reps. John Cauthorn and Jay Houghton in Mid-MO.
Folks are still hopeful that something can be worked out, whether one representative moves, or takes a cycle off. Filing opens February 28 (and closes March 27), so there’s still time.
Nasheed Announces an Announcement
Here’s the press release: “To address the growing speculation about whether State Representative Jamilah Nasheed will seek the newly redistricted 5th Missouri Senatorial seat, she will hold a press conference - following the Holidays - on January 3, 2012 to announce her plans. Information about the exact location and time of the press conference will be provided later.”
Gamble & Schlemeier Hire Brooks
The powerhouse lobbying firm of Gamble and Schlemeier is hiring Jeff Brooks. Brooks was formerly the chief of staff to Ron Richards when he was speaker. He now works his government relations business at Armstrong Teasdale, a position he will retain. Brooks’ client list includes the City of Joplin, the City of Fenton, Enterprise, and the St. Louis Sports Commission.
Gamble and Schlemeier has one of the deepest client lists including Ameren, Ameristar, Kansas City, and Stowers Institute for Medical Research.
The addition of Gamble shown up on Brooks’ registration yet.
Sarah Wood Martin Leaving Minority Staff
Sarah Wood Martin who’s been working for the Democratic House minority staff will leave at the end of the year. Her last day is January 3, before session starts.
She’s be doing political consulting, which will include working for Rep. Mary Still state senate campaign, as well as some other fundraising.
Schmidty Launches Missouri Wonk
Brian Schmidt, recently of the Joint Committee on Tax Policy, has launched Missouri Wonk. See it Here. MO Wonk offers policy analysis services for businesses, trade associations non-profits, campaigns, and government entities.
It’ll publish a newsletter monthly during non-session months, and weekly during session. Schmidty has graciously allowed me to distribute his inaugural issue. (It’s attached to this morning’s email). The weekly will start next month when session begins.
Like MOScout, it is going to be a subscription service, so check it out.
Lobbyists’ Principal Changes
From the Pelopidas Website:
Imogene Clark, Wayne Pressley, Suzie Williams and Linda Schnakenberg added Missouri State Teachers Association.
Ann Teget added Time Warner Cable.
$5K+ Contributions
Citizens to Elect Kurt Schaefer - $5,001 from Friends for Munzlinger.
Jay Nixon for Missouri - $7,500 from International Union of Painters and allied Trades Political Action Together Legislative Educational.
Jay Nixon for Missouri
Birthdays
Happy birthdays to Rep. Bart Koman (36), Melissa Furey (nee DeStefano), St. Louis Biz Jounral’s Ellen Sherberg, and Labor-Management Council’s Bob Jacobi.