The Republicans have held a majority in the Missouri House for 22 years and a super-majority for the past 16. Let’s see where we rank in the nation on different issues. Missouri ranks first in the country for puppy mills and has held this dubious honor for 12 years. It is second in the nation for women killed by men, often their domestic partners. It ranks third for domestic violence, fifth for gun deaths per capita and sixth for drug usage, particularly opioids.
On the other hand, Missouri ranks poorly in health care access and quality, placing 45th in the country in state health care rankings. Missouri also ranks 49th in the nation for funding toward public education. These rankings support the argument for reevaluating the current political leadership and considering alternatives to address these pressing issues.
We deserve more from our elected officials. It’s about time we broke up the Republican super-majority.
NOTE: This letter was originally published in the Jefferson County Leader, July 25, 2024
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