Judge Matthew EP Thornhill of Missouri resigned following disciplinary action for inappropriate conduct in court. The longest-serving circuit judge in St. Charles County was disciplined for wearing an Elvis Presley wig and playing the singer’s music during court proceedings, violating the integrity of court proceedings. The disciplinary commission cited frequent and irrelevant Elvis references as the reason for demanding his suspension. In a letter, Judge Thornhill acknowledged the impact of his actions, expressing a desire to add levity, while regretting the effects.
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Missouri Voters Sue to Block ‘Unconstitutional’ GOP Gerrymander: The crux of the matter is that Missouri voters are taking legal action, aiming to halt what they believe is an unconstitutional gerrymander orchestrated by the state’s Republican party. This lawsuit reflects growing frustration with the way electoral districts are being drawn, potentially skewing representation and undermining the will of the voters. It is a direct challenge to the political maneuvering that often leaves citizens feeling their voices are unheard and their votes diluted.
Missouri Voters Sue to Block ‘Unconstitutional’ GOP Gerrymander: The backdrop to this lawsuit involves a broader pattern of actions by Missouri Republicans that suggest a disconnect from the preferences of the state’s electorate.… Continue reading
Saturday’s Powerball jackpot, the second-largest in U.S. lottery history at nearly $1.8 billion, was won by tickets sold in Missouri and Texas. The Multi-State Lottery Association announced that the winning ticket holders can choose between an annuitized prize of $893.5 million or a lump sum payment of $410.3 million before taxes. Other significant prizes include two $2 million winners in Kansas and Texas, and 18 $1 million winners across 13 states. Following the win, the Powerball jackpot resets to $20 million for the next drawing, after a 42-drawing streak without a winner, with odds of winning at 1 in 292.2 million.
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Missouri Gov. Calls Special Session to Ram Through Gerrymander, Strip Citizen Power
The Missouri Governor’s call for a special legislative session to address redistricting is raising serious concerns about the erosion of democratic principles and the concentration of power. This move, viewed by many as a blatant attempt at a gerrymander, could effectively redraw the state’s political map to favor one party, essentially predetermining election outcomes. This strategy, once considered an extreme measure, has become a hallmark of the Republican party. It’s a clear indication that some political factions are not confident in their ability to win fair elections, and instead, are opting to manipulate the rules to their advantage.… Continue reading
During a town hall meeting in Missouri, constituents voiced strong disapproval of former President Trump and his rhetoric, demanding that their Republican congressman, Mark Alford, denounce Trump’s “lies.” Voters directly challenged Alford on Trump’s statements regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict and immigration, highlighting perceived inconsistencies and false claims. One attendee directly called out Trump, claiming he was a dictator, while others brought up Alford’s lack of opposition to Trump’s actions. The event reflected broader discontent with the former president’s policies and the congressman’s perceived alignment with them.
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During a town hall event in Bolivar, Missouri, Republican Representative Mark Alford faced criticism from constituent Fred Higginbotham. Higginbotham, a farmer, expressed his anger over funding issues and criticized Alford’s perceived alignment with former President Donald Trump. The outburst, captured in a C-Span clip, resulted in applause from some audience members, highlighting growing discontent among constituents. Despite the heated exchange, Alford acknowledged Higginbotham’s concerns and stated his staff would speak with him, and will continue hosting town halls in his district.
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Missouri’s Republican governor signed legislation to repeal the paid sick leave provision of a ballot measure that voters approved in the 2024 election. The original measure, which would have taken effect August 28th, mandated employers provide paid sick time to workers. This new bill, H.B. 567, also restricts increases in the state’s minimum wage. This decision has been criticized by advocacy groups and some Democratic leaders, who argue it undermines the will of the voters and prioritizes business interests over worker protections.
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Longtime Kennett, Missouri resident and waitress Ming Li Hui (“Carol”) faces deportation, a development that has stunned her community. Despite Kennett’s strong support for Trump, residents are rallying behind Carol, highlighting the human impact of immigration policies. Carol, interviewed from jail, expressed emotional distress over her situation and the broader implications of Trump-era immigration enforcement. This episode details Carol’s story and the unexpected outpouring of local support.
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Secretary Noem faced Senate questioning regarding FEMA’s response to recent devastating storms, particularly concerning delayed disaster declaration approvals for Missouri and Mississippi. Senator Hawley pressed Noem to expedite pending requests, highlighting the urgent need for aid in Missouri following significant loss of life. While Noem pledged to expedite applications and individual assistance, concerns remain regarding FEMA’s capacity following staffing cuts and the administration’s plans to dismantle the agency. This situation underscores the inconsistent and inadequate disaster response under the current administration, with some states receiving prompt aid while others face prolonged delays.
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Severe tornadoes ripped through Missouri and Kentucky, leaving approximately 140,000 properties without power and causing significant structural damage. At least 38 injuries were reported in St. Louis alone, with fatalities resulting from building collapses. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing in heavily impacted areas, alongside the imposition of a nighttime curfew to ensure public safety. The storms, part of a broader severe weather system affecting the central and eastern US, struck a region known for its susceptibility to tornadoes.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood