By Rik W. Hafer
As we dig out from the social and economic calamity wrought by the coronavirus pandemic, policy makers in Jefferson City will face some important decisions. Educational policy going forward will be crucial for the economic future of the state and its residents.
Editorials
Common-sense policies move rural America forward
By Garrett Hawkins
Brutal. Miserable. Those were a couple of words (among others) used to describe the recent Arctic blast. As farmers and ranchers, we know dealing with the elements is part of the job, but that didn’t make it easy to manage through the bitter cold and snow to keep hay out and water available. Our animals were, and are, our priority.
Should legislators be punished, or expelled?
By Phill Brooks
Missouri history provides a fascinating contrast to the U.S. House vote to remove Rep. Marjorie Greene, R-Georgia, from committee assignments. Unlike Greene, similar disciplinary actions in Missouri against members have avoided a partisan split and required a simple action by the leader of the legislator's own party.
Eroding trust can also erode the U.S. economy
By Rik Hafer
Recent events surrounding the presidential election and the transfer of power to a new administration has widened a rift amongst U.S. citizens. Many have lost trust in institutions central to the functioning of our political system. Because trust is the bedrock upon which our free market capitalist system rests, if this distrust spills over into our interactions, this will have very dire long-term consequences.
Governor puts money where his mouth is
By Daniel P. Mehan, President and CEO
Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Missouri, did you happen to watch the big speech on January 27?
It was Gov. Mike Parson’s annual State of the State address. If you are like most people I’ve spoken with in recent days, you might have missed it.
It’s a team effort to stop government corruption
By Nicole Galloway, CPA, Missouri State Auditor
Two years ago, I launched a renewed effort to fight fraud and abuse in government by creating the Public Corruption and Fraud Division in my office. In every corner of the state, we've shown that exposing wrongdoing by public officials not only helps recover tax dollars for citizens, it puts others on notice that corruption will not be tolerated. As a CPA and certified fraud examiner, I remain committed to being your independent watchdog as we work to root out fraud and abuse.