Politics
Politics coverage from Statewide and across the region.
Recent coverage
Senators advocate for college sports legislation
Two U.S. Senators are promoting a new bill to regulate compensation for college athletes. They called for support of the proposed federal framework for collegiate sports.
House Approves Measure Addressing Fraudulent Student Aid Applications
The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation designed to prevent misuse of federal student financial aid. The bill aims to close a loophole allowing individuals to falsely claim eligibility for federal assistance.
Thousands of Missourians lose Medicaid due to processing issues
Administrative problems at the state level led to coverage termination for many Missourians enrolled in Medicaid. Affected individuals cited extensive delays in processing their renewal documents.
US military responds to Mideast attacks after aircraft incident
The United States conducted new military operations following a recent helicopter downing. These actions come amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Social Security Fund Faces Depletion in 2032, Trustees Report
Social Security's trust fund reserves are projected to be exhausted by 2032, one year sooner than previous estimates. Without congressional action, the program would then be able to pay out only about 80% of promised benefits.
Federal Government Eyes Mail-In Ballot Restrictions
The Trump administration is advancing initiatives to limit mail-in voting access across states. These proposed changes could impact how Missourians cast ballots in future elections.
Missouri Postpones SNAP Restrictions on Sweetened Beverages and Candy
State officials delayed implementing prohibitions on purchasing sweetened beverages and candy with SNAP benefits until October 2027. This decision follows a state law passed in 2022 that aimed to ban these items.
Trump's Proposed Fund Prompts New Reparations Discussion
Former President Donald Trump suggested allocating $1.7 trillion to a fund intended to address historical injustices against Black Americans. This proposal has reignited a nationwide conversation about reparations.
Appeals Court Upholds Inclusion of Tax Overhaul on August Ballot
A state appeals court ruled that a proposed tax system overhaul will remain on the August 4 ballot. The court approved a revised ballot summary for the initiative.
US Senate Rejects Bill Affecting Voter Access
The U.S. Senate recently defeated a legislative proposal that would have established new requirements for voter registration and identification. The measure failed to pass, preventing its advancement toward becoming law.
Judge Rules Trump Administration Asylum Policy Unlawful
A federal judge determined that the Trump administration's policy, which slowed the processing of asylum applications, violated existing law. The ruling could impact numerous asylum seekers who experienced delays.
Former President Proposes $700 Million for Coal-Fired Power Plants
Donald Trump announced plans to invest significant funds into coal energy production across several states. He also criticized renewable energy sources during an event.
Senate debates $70B for immigration enforcement
The U.S. Senate began extended sessions to vote on a spending bill. It allocates nearly $70 billion to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol operations.
Medical Organizations Reaffirm Acetaminophen Safety for Pregnant Individuals
Major medical groups issued new guidance confirming the safety of acetaminophen use during pregnancy. This updated advice follows past public statements that raised questions about the medication's risks.
Missouri Adopts Anti-Human Trafficking App Before World Cup
Missouri is implementing a new anti-human trafficking application statewide. This initiative aims to combat trafficking ahead of increased tourism for the 2026 World Cup.
New Federal Medicaid Work Rules Present Implementation Challenge for States
Federal officials recently released updated regulations for Medicaid work requirements, initiating a compressed timeframe for state governments to incorporate the new guidelines. States must navigate these revised rules to maintain compliance with federal healthcare mandates.
Federal Government Reallocates Unused Funding for Border Wall Construction
The Trump administration redirected $1.77 billion from a Department of Defense account to finance military construction projects at the U.S.-Mexico border. This funding was originally designated for a global counter-narcotics program.
Missouri Realtors Donate $1.9 Million to Oppose Tax Amendment
Missouri real estate organizations contributed $1.9 million to a campaign fighting an upcoming tax amendment. These groups aim to defeat Proposition 5, which voters will consider on the ballot.
Missouri Considers Cuts to Mental Health Services Funding
Missouri's Department of Mental Health proposes budget reductions affecting programs that support families of individuals with mental illnesses. These changes could impact essential services across the state.
Missouri GOP Lawmakers Seek Changes to Governor's Budget Control
State Republicans are challenging Governor Mike Parson's handling of federal funds. They assert legislative oversight is necessary for the approximately $1.77 billion in unappropriated money.
Judge Upholds Income Tax Replacement on August Ballot
A state judge ruled that a measure to swap Missouri's income tax for a broader sales tax can proceed to the August 4th ballot. Voters will consider the proposition as part of an ongoing statewide fiscal debate.
Democrats examine early primary states' policies on housing and abortion
Democratic leaders scrutinize states vying for an early presidential primary spot, focusing on their stances regarding rental costs and abortion access. The review process evaluates how these states align with party priorities on key social and economic issues.
Missouri House Leader Absent from Amicus Brief in Voucher Program Case
House Speaker Dean Plocher did not join 75 Republican legislators in an amicus brief defending State Treasurer Vivek Malek's administration of a state-funded scholarship program. The legal filing supports Malek in a lawsuit questioning his eligibility to oversee the program.
Academics Compare Trump's Proposed Fund to Historical 'Spoils System'
University scholars are drawing parallels between a spending proposal by former President Donald Trump and the 19th-century political spoils system. Critics suggest the fund could prioritize loyalty over merit in government appointments.
Former Florida Attorney General Testifies on Jeffrey Epstein Investigation
Pam Bondi appeared before a U.S. House panel to discuss how the Florida attorney general's office handled Jeffrey Epstein's case. Democratic members of the committee criticized her responses during questioning about the investigation.
USPS to Align Mail-in Voting Practices with Trump Administration Directives
The U.S. Postal Service is implementing changes to standardize mail-in voting procedures. This action follows the Trump administration's directive to limit expansion of mail-in ballots.
Court to rule on Missouri tax overhaul ballot measure
A judge will decide Monday whether a proposed state tax amendment remains on the August ballot. The amendment seeks to simplify Missouri's tax code.
Missouri Senate Considers Bill to End Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation
The Missouri Senate will consider legislation to establish an easier path for courts to dismiss lawsuits filed to suppress public criticism. The bill aims to protect individuals from legal actions designed to silence free speech regarding matters of public interest.
Trump's PAC finances draw legal challenges, impact Republican Party
A political action committee linked to Donald Trump faces legal scrutiny regarding its financial practices. These actions have created divisions within the Republican party in Missouri.
Senator Lincoln Hough concludes legislative service, reflects on party evolution
State Senator Lincoln Hough of Springfield completed his final legislative session in Missouri. He noted shifts within the Republican Party during his tenure.
Senator Lincoln Hough concludes legislative service, reflects on party evolution
Senator Lincoln Hough of Springfield shared observations on the Senate's current state and budgetary priorities as he completed his final legislative session. He noted changes within the Republican Party during his tenure.
Missouri Farmers Unsure About Increased Chinese Agricultural Purchases
Some Missouri farmers express uncertainty regarding a trade agreement that commits China to purchase an additional $17 billion annually in U.S. agricultural products. They question the deal's potential impact and overall effectiveness.
Integrated Energy Planning Needed for Missouri's Power Grid
Missouri's energy infrastructure requires a unified planning approach to ensure reliability and efficiency. Current fragmented strategies may hinder the state's long-term power stability.
Missouri Supreme Court Upholds Governor's Special Session Authority
The Missouri Supreme Court dismissed a legal challenge to the governor's power to convene special legislative sessions. The ruling affirms the executive branch's constitutional right to call lawmakers back for specific issues.
Abortion-Rights Group Organizes Effort Against Missouri Amendment 3
A coalition supporting abortion access has initiated a campaign opposing potential Missouri Amendment 3. The group aims to prevent its passage in the upcoming election.
Missouri rural hospitals express funding concerns amid potential federal cuts
Rural hospital associations in Missouri report that $50 billion in federal grants will not compensate for anticipated Medicare and Medicaid reductions. These facilities face significant financial challenges across the state.
Federal Officials Discuss Security Following Shooting Incident
Following a recent shooting incident, federal authorities are re-evaluating security measures. The Trump administration specifically considers increased security protocols for the White House.
Missouri reduces fresh produce assistance after SNAP debate
Missouri recently decreased funding for a program that helps low-income residents buy fresh fruits and vegetables. This change comes after the state legislature considered—but did not pass—a bill to restrict SNAP benefits from being used on certain food items.
Governor Places Tax Overhaul on August Ballot, Abortion Ban on November Ballot
Missouri's governor has scheduled a tax system revision for an August vote and an abortion restriction measure for the November ballot. These decisions set the timeline for two significant statewide policy considerations.
Governor Places Tax Changes and Initiative Petition Measures on August Ballot
Missouri voters will consider amendments addressing tax reform and proposed changes to the initiative petition process during the August election. Governor Parson officially designated these two proposals for the ballot.
Featured reporting
St. Louis unveils sweeping plan to reshape the riverfront around the Gateway Arch
A decade in the making, the proposal would link downtown to the Mississippi with new parks, transit and a redesigned approach to the national monument.
Lawmakers reach late-night budget deal in Jefferson City after weeks of deadlock
The compromise restores funding for rural broadband and shifts hundreds of millions toward public schools and infrastructure.
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