“Useless laws weaken the necessary laws.” – Charles-Louis de Secondat, baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu (1689 – 1755)
A bill, introduced in the current special session of the Missouri General Assembly:
SB 9 – This act creates the offense of unlawful traffic interference if, with the intention to impede vehicular traffic, the person walks, stands, sits, kneels, lays, or places an object in a manner that blocks passage by a vehicle on any public street or highway.
This offense is a Class A misdemeanor if a person blocks a public street for the first violation and a Class E felony for any subsequent violation.
This offense is a Class E felony if a person blocks an interstate highway.
This offense is a Class D felony if a person blocks a street or highway as part of an unlawful assembly.
Some details:
[….] (2) “Unlawful assembly”, two or more persons who meet for the purpose of violating any of the criminal laws of this state or of the United States.
Do meetings in offices in the capitol building qualify? Just asking.
2. A person commits the offense of unlawful traffic interference if, with the intention to impede vehicular traffic, the person walks, stands, sits, kneels, lays, or places an object in such a manner as to block passage by a vehicle on any public street, highway, or interstate highway. [….]
In Warrensburg, Missouri on May 31, 2020:
When you can’t hear or see dissent than there is no First Amendment.
I’m Ashley Aune and I’m running for state representative in Missouri’s 14th house district. If we haven’t met yet it may be because campaigning looks a little different these days. But it’s more important than ever to elect someone who will do whatever it takes to represent you. As a business owner and lifelong Kansas Cityian I’ll bring a unique perspective to the Missouri legislature, one that focuses on creating and nurturing opportunities for economic success, both for our families and our business community.
As your state rep I want to be a voice for progress in the Northland. You can trust me to fight for the best educational opportunities for all our children, quality affordable health care access to keep our families and workforce strong, a fair and transparent government that works for everyone, protections for the workers and union members who move our economy forward, and a balanced approach to ensuring the safety of our families in the face of crime, gun violence, and inequality.
Learn more and join my campaign ashleyforomissouri.com
In the 2018 General Election Missouri voters overwhelmingly supported redistricting, ethics, and campaign finance reform in the CLEAN Missouri ballot initiative:
At least while the right wingnut republican controlled Missouri General Assembly is in session.
This morning:
Jason Hancock @J_Hancock
Missouri Legislature looking to return for final 3 weeks of 2020 session.
Hearing they will wait until a special session this summer to tackle the budget.
What’s likely on the agenda? PDMP, capping punative damages & repealing redistricting changes enacted by voters #moleg
[….] 7:16 AM · Apr 14, 2020
The right wingnut republican majority in the Missouri General Assembly has a legislative priority of keeping their political advantage through unrepresentative gerrymandering and overturning the voters’ will on redistricting reform. Think about that for a second. That’s one of their top priorities.
And, in anticipation of the General Assembly’s designs on redistricting reform, today at the Missouri Ethics Commission:
161298 04/14/2020 CLEAN Missouri Action Now Initiative 1717 West Loop S Houston TX 77027 4/13/2020 $400,000.00
[emphasis added]
Equal representation through redistricting reform, if you can keep it.
The final vote to override Governor Jay Nixon’s veto of SB 509. Representative Jeremy LaFaver (D) (left) – bearing witness, Representative Keith English (center) – casting the 109th vote necessary for the override, and Representative Ron Hicks (r) (right) – his escort on and off the House floor. May 6, 2014.
….Moreover, the revenue triggers in the legislation only apply until the tax cuts are fully phased-in. After that time, under the legislature’s own estimates, there would be at least $620 million less in general revenue available each and every year, regardless of whether revenue collections are going up or down. In addition, the legislation’s annual cost would continue to grow above the legislature’s $620 million annual estimate because the income bracket adjustments in the bill for increases in the consumer price index would continue indefinitely. See Section 143.011.3. This provision alone would result in an additional $128 million in annual revenue reductions ten years after the legislation is fully phased-in, increasing each year in perpetuity….
That was then, this is now:
Governor Mike Parson @GovParsonMO
Between now and June 31st, we are estimating an over $500 million shortfall.
We have had to take a hard look at our budget and make some very difficult decisions. 3:11 PM · Apr 1, 2020
Rep. Hannah Kelly (r) tried to get into a social media fight with candidate for Attorney General Elad Gross (D).
Representative Hannah Kelly (r) [2019 file photo].
Hannah Kelly @HannahKellyMO
Republican supermajority said YES TO 40 Million in the supplemental budget 2 fight #coronavirus.Going into Session is not contingent on the absence any 1 member.We are all praying for the swift health recovery & return of Rep. Runions. @BigElad needs to stop with the politics.
[….] 4:53 PM · Mar 21, 2020
That’s “pro-life” for you. How many people in Missouri? What’s the latest prediction of the COVID-19 infection rate, maybe 50%? Do the math.
Some of the responses:
$7 million from State
Elad Gross: $7 million that was already allocated for emergency response efforts.
These folks are trying to play our state in the midst of a pandemic. We cannot afford this.
Yes your not the one being dishonest. It’s just nuts how they spin.
Legislative staffer: It is a little ironic @BigElad saying no more playing politics while playing politics and spreading false information. He could have argued about the amount. But in fairness probably didn’t do his research. #FeelBetterRunions #MoreImportantThings
More important things? The General Assembly was elected to serve the people. If it can’t find a way to do so during any type of emergency, then what purpose does it actually serve? If you can’t, then step aside for someone who can and will.
Elad Gross (D) [2020 file photo].
Elad Gross: [….] I rarely ever talk about the parties, but this is absolute crap.
Rep. Runions deserves more than our well-wishes. He needs us to be responsible, protect him, and protect all of the people of our state.
A friend of mine is on a ventilator right now. We deserve better.
Elad Gross: $7 million is STATE FUNDS we have now.
$33 million of FEDERAL FUNDS is a made-up number hoping that we get it.
The Governor agrees we need emergency funding NOW!
Because of this failure, we need to bring #Coronavirus-exposed reps back to Jeff City!?
I try very hard to be nice and polite but I’ve had it.
You are failing the people of Missouri.
You and the Governor with his inept, pathetic excuse for a Director of health have done virtually nothing to avert this crisis.
Hospitals are all ready begging for assistance.
You have abdicated responsibility to Mayors and thank God for them.
Why am I Tweeting this?
Because when the death toll mounts there needs to be a record of what you didn’t do, of how you didn’t lead, and of how your inaction resulted in harm to Missouri.
Shame on you.
Why is it too much to be fully honest?
Missouri is going to lose many, many people because of you. People will lose jobs and homes; families will be broken up because of you.
We will not forget.
Politics got us into this disaster and politics is going to get us out. No shame in talking about the next election. I wish it were tomorrow.
Hannah Kelly is a liar.
There’s about to be a lot of blood on your hands. Absolutely disgusting.
This made me feel nauseous. I hope this makes Hannah feel nauseous.
Here’s a hat for you & your @gop so-called “super” majority…of [….]
This isn’t the time for politics! That time was last week when the “liberal media” was spreading a hoax! Amirite @HannahKellyMO?
Not nearly enough. More medical supplies are urgently needed, and people will have their livelihoods ruined and/or die because of a your refusal to do all you can. Don’t hurt your arm patting yourself on the back.
@gop are #UnfitForOffice #UnfitToLead #ResignNow
@HannahKellyMO The bare minimum you could do. #NoMedals #TrumpPandemic
I wonder why when Republicans are called out now their claim is, but, but, you’re wrong, it’s so very benign.
Tragic for our country when partisan politics were never an issue and now it’s every single one!
Your the one who needs to stop with the politics. You did the bare minimum, you agreed to take federal money. That’s it. Why do you Republicans have to lie all the time?
33 million of that was just taking the federal money. Once again, don’t break your arm patting yourself on the back. You voted down a reasonable package of 87 million that would have helped healthcare with desperately needed supplies & equipment NOW.
Lol most of that was just accepting federal funds. What about the $87M you voted down for healthcare/medical needs? OUR HOSPITALS AND MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS NEED HELP NOW!!!
You voted down an 87 million packge that included healthcare! What are you bragging about?
If you’re not going to seriously help, STFU. We see your record you idiot.
A statement from the leadership of the Missouri House of Representatives:
Elijah Haahr @elijahhaahr
Bipartisan #MoLeg Statement Regarding #COVID-19 in the State Capitol Building.
[….]
“We have recently learned a member of the House of Representatives has tested positive for the coronavirus. We are still working to notify members and staff that might have been in contact with the member and have requested all employees stay out of the Capitol for at least the next 10 days. While we learn more and work closely with DHSS to take every precaution necessary, we keep this member and their family in our thoughts and prayers in their battle to return back to health.”
[….] 6:00 PM · Mar 20, 2020
House Democratic Minority Leader Crystal Quade [2019 file photo].
And from other members of the House, referring to the statement:
MaryElizabethColeman @meaccoleman In accordance with CDC guidelines, after having limited exposure with the infected Representative, I will self quarantine for the next 14 days. #MoLeg
Rasheen Aldridge. Jr @RepSheenBean
For the next 14 days I will be self quarantine. #COVID-19
Kip Kendrick @Kip_Kendrick
With a member of the Missouri House testing positive for COVID-19, I will be self quarantining for the next 14 days because it’s the right thing to do.
Gina Mitten @gcmitts
My last interaction with this member was 3/12, so I will not be leaving my home until next Wednesday.
From media:
Jaclyn Driscoll @DriscollNPR
Some members of the press are concerned this could be someone from the budget committee since we were jammed into a room on Sunday doing budget markup. From reliable sources: the person is not on budget committee and was last in the capitol on March 12th #moleg
“The governor’s declaration of a state of emergency is an important step, but one of just many needed to mitigate the spread of coronavirus and prepare for its impact. Instead of just reacting to the situation as it unfolds, the administration must anticipate future developments and take pre-emptive action before problems occur.
“In the short-term, that includes giving local health care providers all necessary resources to protect the public, plus ensuring that no one is denied care – and left to potentially spread the virus – because of inability to pay. Longer term, the state must implement economic protections for Missourians who might be unable work or pay their bills until the crisis passes.
“We recently shared some recommendations to help address both the public health and economic implications of coronavirus. We hope the governor will quickly announce his plan and begin implementing it.”
“…We are in this for the people that live next door to us…”
Yvonne Reeves-Chong (D), candidate in the 122nd Legislative District – Sedalia, Missouri – January 25, 2020.
Lindsey Simmons, a Democratic Party candidate in the 4th Congressional District, held a campaign meet and greet event, including area and statewide candidates, in Sedalia yesterday evening.
Yvonne Reeves-Chong (D): … The 122nd, we, it’s actually open, but, we aven’t had a Democrat run for that seat since 2006. We ceded the territory. And, I’m going to make a difference, as she mentioned.
I’m running this thing, and I’m running this race, and I’m making them chase me. [applause] Guys, I went up with four by eights [signs] last week. And I’m talking to every single person. I woke up at six thirty, well, I woke up at five thirty. Six thirty this morning I was at the Great Chili Cookoff. [laughter] Because there were four hundred people at the Great Chili Cookoff. Now, I’m strictly a microwave kind of girl. [laughter] So I found some good Democrats that could cook. And we made some dang good chili, came in third. [applause]
But one of the things that happened today that I thought was really interesting, I was in the kitchen because they allowed me to stir, no more. And I was doing stirring duty and one of the other contestants walked over and said, you know, I just took a picture of you and sent it, sent it to my cousin, who is my opponent, because you’re here and he isn’t. [applause]
Everybody’s going to tell you that we can’t win. They’re gonna tell you that this is red territory. And on the surface I think they might be right. It looks kind of red. Until we start talking to people.
What makes the difference? My district is a red district. And every district that we don’t compete in is a red district. [applause]
Last week I held a town hall meeting. I decided we were gonna talk about guns. And I’m a Democrat. And I got a hundred people together in a red district. And I had Moms Demand Justice up here in the front row. And I had the guy over in the back corner, ’cause you know those guys are gonna sit in the back corner. [laughter] Going, your gonna take my gun. And we spent an hour talking. And at the end of that hour we came up with a background check law that every single person in that room agreed to. [applause] We are not going to win on Facebook. We are not going to win by talking to each other in groups like this. And I love doing this. It’s necessary, but it will not win our race. I’m lucky. I have a pretty contained district. And I’m going to talk to every single person. [applause] When we left the gun town hall the guy in the back walked up to me and said, I really hate that you’re a damn Democrat. [laughter] I looked at him and said, gonna break a trend, aren’t I? He said, yep, gimme a big old hug ’cause I gotta vote for you. [applause]…
Yvonne Reeves-Chong (D): …So, I’m gonna be that damn Democrat. And I’m going to talk to people who don’t like me. We are in this for the people that live next door to us. And the people that work at the companies, not just the people that own the companies. [applause]
If I can give you any hint, and we’ve got a lot of candidates here, we’re getting ready to do some really great things this year. We’re aiming for greatness.
And, I, I’m a single parent. Raised my son. And I think he’s great. He’s a pretty successful kid. He’s got his head on straight, um, he’s a pastor, been a pastor for fifteen years. And so I talk to him. You know, ’cause I gotta get my mom strokes in. ‘Cause, obviously, I did a great job. [laughter] And, and I asked him, I said, what could I have done better? Expecting him to say, Mom, you’re the best. And he said, Mom, you did a lot of really terrific things, you gave me voice lessons, and piano lessons, we went to museums, we discussed cultural things, you got me a terrific education. But, you know what, Mom? It would have been easier to be great if you had done one thing. Well, what’s that? He said, Mom, you should have taught me how to make my bed every morning. I said, what? He said, Mom, you see, it’s the little daily things we do tat ease the path to greatness.
It’s not the big things. We’re not gonna win this race on Election Day. We’re gonna win our races by making our beds every morning and talking to the woman at the drive through, or going to talk to the hotel maid, if you’re staying in a hotel overnight. You’re gonna talk to the person at WalMart. We’re gonna door knock, but we’re gonna have real conversations with real, with real people. You’re gonna talk to that neighbor with the Trump sign in his yard. Talk to him. He voted for Trump ’cause he’s mad. And he should be. And if you look at what’s going on in Jeff City right now, furious. So, you strut right past that Trump sign, knock on the door with the Confederate flag. [laughter] Oh, I do. Those are my people. [laughter][applause] Talk to them. That’s really all they’ve asked for, for years. They asked us to please talk to ’em.
So, let’s go make our beds. Let’s do those small things. Every one of us. In every one of these districts…
Judy Baker (D), candidate for 19th Senate District, speaking in Sedalia, Missouri on January 25, 2020.
Lindsey Simmons, a Democratic Party candidate in the 4th Congressional District, held a campaign meet and greet event, including area and statewide candidates, in Sedalia yesterday evening.
Judy Baker (D): [….] …So I want to talk tonight about three chronic conditions that Missouri has.
The first one is, we have chronic health system failure. But what that is, is, we’ve talked about Medicaid expansion, it’s largely that. U. Medicaid expansion has two things, two big things going on with it. First of all, this, uh, administration in Missouri has kicked off over a hundred thousand children off of health care. That’s children, people. And then last week they bragged about that because they did that there is more money in the budget. And my opponent [Caleb Rowden (r)] has even said, well, because we have, we were able to do that then, you know, we might be able to give more money to education. Pitting children against their own education. How egregious is that?
Uh, and then secondarily in health care we have the money people have talked about. And I’m gonna give you a number. When we say that we’ve sent our taxpayer dollars to Washington, D.C. and we have not, we have not seen it come back because it’s been going to Illinois, and Kansas, Iowa, uh, because they all took, uh, Medicaid expansion. Even Kansas has worked a deal to do that.
It’s a big number. And it’s with a B. It’s one point eight billion dollars a year that we don’t bring back to Missouri. Every, every, every single report and study that’s been done on Medicaid expansion has shown that state revenues go up, average wage goes up. Who would like a raise? Yeah, all of us would like a raise. Uh, they way to do that is to actually do Medicaid expansion. Chronic health system failure at the hands of the current Republican leadership.
The second is chronic unfairness. Chronic unfairness, both in the country and in our state. Rising inequality, we have the highest inequality in the last fifty years. That means people are working harder and getting less. And people at the top are doing quite well, thank you very much. Less than fifty percent of Americans can even have enough at the end of the month to put anything away in saving accounts. So when they say, oh, well, you know, our 401K is doing okay, most people don’t have a 401K, thank you very much. So, chronic unfairness…
Judy Baker (D): …My opponent has worked against the, uh, Proposition Four minimum wage. So, we have, we have got to do something about that chronic problem.
And then lastly, number three, chronic political disempowerment. You all know what I mean by that, I’m having a lot of shaking heads. It means gerrymandering, it means too much money in politics, it means that one person, one vote has been diluted, particularly in Missouri.
My opponent just reported his numbers for fundraising in the fourth quarter. And it was practically all PAC money. I have real people in my report giving ten and fifty and hundred and fifty and two hundred dollars at a time. And I’m very, very proud of that. We’re not gonna win on having the most money, but we’re gonna win on having the best money. [applause]
Chronic political disempowerment. We are now governing by ballot. Do you all know what I mean by that? Missourians, whatever they want and the legislature won’t give us, which is a lot of things, we have to go to the ballot for. Like minimum wage, raising the minimum wage. Like, right to work, defeating right to work. And having fair labor practices in this state. And Clean Missouri. To get money out of politics, we had to take it to the ballot. And now to have adequate health care for our children and our citizen and our working families, we have to take it to the ballot. Why do we have to do that? Because our representatives don’t represent us anymore. They represent large interests and whoever gives them the most money…
Judy Baker (D): …So, the most important thing that you all want to hear from me tonight is how are we gonna win. Senate 19. What’s my name again? [voices:] “Judy Baker.” Judy Baker. And what’s my district? [voices:] “Senate 19.” Senate 19. It’s Columbia, Booneville, and all those areas around there.
How do we win? We barely lost this seat in 2016. We should have won this one. Tis is our seat and we’re gonna take it back. I have already [applause], yes. How are we gonna win? I already won this seat once. I told you I ran for State Treasurer in that year 2016, when I ran, if you take out just Senate 19 I actually won the district in 2016. And then Claire McCaskill won it in 2018. So, 2020, Judy Baker’s taking it back. [applause]
Clean Missouri, Clean Missouri, where we take money out of politics and we get rid of gerrymandering. Clean Missouri passed in my district, Senate District 19, with seventy-one percent of the vote. I’m telling you, right now, Caleb Rowden (r) has a problem. And that problem’s name is: [voices:] “Judy Baker.” That is right. Judy Baker is coming to get him. The train is coming through and we’re gonna take him down.
And we’re gonna show them what real representation looks like.
I can’t thank you all enough for being here tonight and supporting Democrats.
We have a webite, uh, we could use some funds. Uh, but mostly, I want you to support the host of the party tonight and thank her very much for allowing us to come and be here. [applause]
Last thing. When we win this in November, believe it or not, for Columbia and Booneville in Missouri this will be the first female state senator in those counties. [applause]
