MOScout Daily Update: Laffer for Kehoe? - Paxton for Scharf - Platform Drama Continues and more…
Laffer for Kehoe?
Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft promised to appoint Art Laffer to a task force of experts to recommend pro-growth replacements to the state income tax.
But Laffer appears to be picking LG Mike Kehoe as his gubernatorial choice. He’ll be the special guest at tomorrow evening’s Kehoe fundraiser at the home of Greg Hoberock & Anne McPherson.
GOP Platform Drama Continues
Various MOScouters texted me that at the quarterly Republican State Party meeting over the weekend, there was another attempt by pro-Eigel members to adopt a new Republican platform. “It died with a ballot vote 44-18.”
· This is a continuation of the insurgent Republicans against the more “regular” Republicans. The state party appears to confronting a similar schism as has infected the Senate.
Rumorville: Bozarth Exits Treas Office
I’m told that Ray Bozarth’s last day as Treasurer Vivek Malek’s chief of staff was Friday. And that he’s “headed to the credit union association.:
Hinson Committee Termination
I referenced a Washington Missourian news article which cited sources that former Rep. Dave Hinson would not be running for re-election as county commissioner, but rather be headed to Colorado to take a government relations job.
Indeed, Hinson terminated his campaign committee last week.
Driving the Day: SCOMO on Candidate Qualifications
The Supreme Court of Missouri will hear oral arguments today in Cass County Clerk Jeff Fletcher v. Herschel L. Young.
· At question, does the statute barring a felon from running for office hold against a felon who’s been pardoned?
Paxton for Scharf
Fox News reports that Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has endorsed Will Scharf in the Republican AG’s race. “I know Will personally, and I am confident that he is the right person to protect the freedoms and liberties of all Missourians.”
· Paxton is popular with the MAGA crowd, having filed suit for Donald Trump in the aftermath of the 2020 election.
LELC for Kehoe
Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe received the endorsement of the Law Enforcement Legislative Coalition, a police chiefs association. “His commitment to enact a statewide crime plan that includes boosting law enforcement recruitment is critical as we work toward safer neighborhoods, schools and business districts. In this time where police officers and law enforcement leaders are challenged with an illicit drug epidemic and violent crime, we need a leader who shares our belief in the importance of safe communities. Please support Mike Kehoe for Governor for the State of Missouri.”
Mystery Trip Fundraiser
One lobbyist: “Have you ever seen a fundraiser that doesn’t list the city or address before?”
This Thursday’s fundraiser for Bill Eigel is at a disclosed location…
Candidate Withdrawals
Mark Farnham withdrew from the House 160 Republican primary. He had been slated to run against Rep. Ben Baker. I’m told he’s dropping out of respect to Baker’s tragedy. Farnham had filed a Limited Activity report prior to this.
Help Wanted
Olsson seeks Government Relations Specialist. “The Government Relations Specialist will support the Government Affairs team by representing the firm’s interests through consulting leadership, primarily within Arkansas, Missouri, and nearby states. This role involves engaging in grassroots initiatives, interacting with industry associations, and supporting various government relations activities.” See the posting here.
Lobbyists Registrations
Heath Clarkston and Doug Nelson added Ehawk Inc.
Erin Schrimpf added Schrimpf Strategies.
Ginger Steinmetz deleted Dell Inc., Gold Rush Gaming, and TEG (Trinity Education Group).
$5K+ Contributions
American Dream PAC (pro-Kehoe) - $11,625 from KC BIZPAC - The Political Action Committee if Greater KC Chamber.
$5K+ Correction
Lincoln PAC erroneously 48-hr reported that MLPA Legislative Fund donated $20,000 to Lincoln PAC on 6/5/24. The correct donor’s name was Operating Engineers Local 101 PAC, and the report has been amended to show the correct donor’s name.