AUGUST 20, 2018

Jefferson City — On Monday, Governor Mike Parson joined President Trump in speaking out in support of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), including two rotations of Missouri National Guard Soldiers, who first responded to the mission shortly after the President's call in April.

Currently, four Missouri National Guard soldiers are serving on the southwest border, providing aerial surveillance from their UH-72 Lakota helicopter. Since arriving in Arizona earlier this summer, the crew has executed approximately 400 flight hours in support of the federal border security mission.

“Patrolling our borders has never been an easy role, with many difficult decisions to make; but I am proud of the service of these men and women,” said Governor Parson. “By patrolling our borders, we can take a proactive stand against human trafficking, violence, terrorism, and illegal immigration from spiraling out of control. Our National Guard soldiers have done a great service to their country in their critical support role and have represented Missouri very well.”

Though Governor Parson was adamant in the enforcement and control of our borders, he spoke proudly of the importance of immigrants and the impact they have had on our society. Governor Parson said, “This will always be a nation of immigrants. It is the one common trait we all share. Immigrants have and will continue to have an important role in Missouri and the United States. However, we must work together to help control the amount of illegal activity that passes through this country while giving legal immigrants a chance to succeed in this country. The American dream will never be lost.”

AUGUST 22, 2018

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Parson appointed Robert Cornejo to the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission and additionally designated him Chair of the Commission. Prior to his appointment, Cornejo served as a member of the Missouri House, representing St. Charles and Lincoln Counties (District 64). He was elected to his first two-year term as a State Representative in November 2012.

“Having served as Chair of more than one House committee, including General Laws, Robert brings the experience necessary to his new role as Chairman of the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission,” said Gov. Parson. “His effectiveness in handling multiple projects ranging from constituent concerns to passing legislation at such a high level of quality gives him the qualifications needed to oversee this commission.”

A 2001 graduate of Hazelwood Central, Cornejo graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a degree in Political Science with a second major in International Business. In 2008, Cornejo earned his J.D. from University of Missouri-School of Law.

Born in St. Louis County, Cornejo currently lives in St. Peters with his wife. They have a son and two daughters.