FEBRUARY 21, 2025

Next week, Governor Mike Kehoe will attend several meetings and events across the state.

On Monday, February 24, Governor Kehoe will present a proclamation for Loeys-Dietz Syndrome Awareness Month and give the keynote address at the Missouri Farm Bureau's Legislative Banquet in Jefferson City.

On Tuesday, February 25, Governor Kehoe will travel to Southwest Missouri to speak at the Missouri Association of Manufacturers' Midwest Manufacturers Trade Show & Conference in Branson. He will also travel to Springfield to visit BulkLoads and the Mid-States Organized Crime Information Center.

On Wednesday, February 26, Governor Kehoe will host a meet and greet with the Missouri Speech-Language-Hearing Association, meet with members of the International Women's Forum Missouri, and speak at Disability Rights Legislative Day in the Capitol Rotunda. He will also host a group of Missouri House Representatives for lunch at the Governor's Mansion. He will then stop by Senators Bean and Burger’s Taste of the South event in Jefferson City.

On Thursday, February 27, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will welcome members of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus to the Governor's Mansion for lunch and host a meet and greet with Cape Girardeau Chamber members in the Governor's Office.

On Friday, February 28, Governor Kehoe will speak to members of the Hawthorn Foundation at their meeting in Fulton. He and the First Lady will also tour Gateway Studios in Chesterfield.

On Saturday, March 1, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will attend opening day of the catch-and-keep trout fishing season at Roaring River State Park.

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Governor Kehoe to speak at Midwest Manufacturers Trade Show & Conference

           When:          8:45 a.m.  

           Where:      Branson Convention Center

                              200 S. Sycamore St., Branson, MO 65616

           Media:       Open

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Governor Kehoe to speak at Disability Rights Legislative Day

           When:          11:15 a.m.  

           Where:        Missouri State Capitol - First Floor Rotunda

           Media:         Open

Saturday, March 1, 2025

Governor and First Lady Kehoe to participate in Trout Season Opening Day

           When:          6:30 a.m.  

         Where:        Roaring River State Park

                              12716 Farm Rd 2239, Cassville, MO 65625

           Media:       Open

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FEBRUARY 18, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-18, directing all Missouri state agencies to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and ensure compliance with the constitutional principle of equal protection under the law. The order bars the use of state funds for DEI and prevents agencies from considering DEI in their hiring decisions.

“Missourians deserve a government that treats all individuals equally, without preferential treatment or discrimination based on immutable characteristics,” said Governor Kehoe. “Our state agencies must operate under a framework that ensures fairness, equal opportunity, and merit-based decision-making. This order reaffirms Missouri’s commitment to a constitutional, color-blind approach that serves all citizens fairly.”

The executive order includes the following key directives:

• Equal Protection of All People: State agencies must uphold the constitutional principle of equal treatment under the law;
• Elimination of Public Funds for DEI: State agencies are barred from using public funds for DEI-related positions, organizational structures, policies, procedures, practices, activities, training, programs, or contracts;
• Prohibition on Considering DEI in State Hiring Decisions: Agencies are prohibited from considering DEI factors in hiring decisions; and
• Compliance Review: Agencies must conduct a comprehensive review of existing contracts, programs, and policies within 90 days to ensure full compliance with the directive.

While this order directs the removal of DEI-based programs, it does not apply to any requirements in federal or state statute that uphold the rights and freedoms of Missouri citizens. State agencies will continue to enforce all laws that prohibit discrimination and ensure fairness for all citizens.

To view Executive Order 25-18, please click here.

Governor Kehoe Signs EO 25-18.JPG

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FEBRUARY 14, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe appointed a new Associate Circuit Judge for the 21st Judicial Circuit and filled four vacancies on various boards and commissions.

Justin W. Ruth, of University City, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Saint Louis County in the 21st Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Ruth is a principal attorney at Riezman Berger, PC. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Virginia and a Juris Doctor from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis. He is also an active member of several bar associations, including the Missouri Bar, St. Louis County Bar, and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, where he has previously held leadership roles. Ruth was previously appointed by the Supreme Court of Missouri as a member of the OCDC Disciplinary Committee for Region XL. Mr. Ruth will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Amanda B. McNelley to the circuit court.

Alfred Brandt, of Linn, was appointed as a member of the State Milk Board.

Mr. Brandt was previously the owner of Brandt Dairy Farms, and has been a member of the State Milk Board since 2009, serving as the president from 2011 to 2024. He is also an active member of the Holstein Association USA Board and the St. George Parish Council. Previously, he served as President of Missouri Dairy and was a member of the Midwest Dairy Board for the MO-KAN division. Mr. Brandt holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Lincoln University.

Louise Secker, of Joplin, was appointed to the Missouri Community Service Commission.

Ms. Secker is a licensed real estate salesperson for Keller Williams Realty Elevate. She previously served as the Director of Development for Lafayette House in Joplin, Missouri. Beyond her professional career,  Ms. Secker has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service, holding leadership roles on the boards of Jasper County CASA, the Joplin Regional Community Foundation, and the Mount Hope Cemetery. She is also serves on the steering committee for One Joplin Collaborative and is an active member of the Friends of St. Avips, a nonprofit organization that supports fundraising efforts for the Spiva Center for the Arts.

Jennifer Keller, of Lee's Summit, was appointed as a member of the State Committee of Psychologists.

Ms. Keller is a licensed psychologist and serves as Senior Director of Behavioral Health - Counseling Clinics and Psychology at University Health. She is also the Section Chief of Psychology and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Medicine. She holds a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from Forest Institute of Professional Psychology, her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, has completed an APA-accredited Pre-Doctoral Internship and holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy. With extensive experience in clinical psychology and behavioral health, Ms. Keller has held key leadership positions, including Preadolescent Program Director and Clinical Coordinator of Counseling. Since 2005, she has been an active member of the American Psychological Association and, since 2017, has served on the Missouri Psychological Association's Evidence-Based Practice Committee.

Timothy Flora, of Ellisville, was appointed to the Missouri State Board of Private Investigators and Private Fire Investigator Examiners.

Mr. Flora is the President and Certified Licensed Polygraph Examiner at Mid-West Protective Service, Inc., with over 40 years of experience in law enforcement, investigation, and fire safety. He holds a Master of Arts in Legal Studies from Webster University, a Bachelor of Science in Management from Tarkio College, and a Criminal Justice Certificate from Northeast Missouri State University. Mr. Flora has served in key leadership roles, including Director of the Metro West Fire Protection District and Chairman of the Central County Emergency 911 Dispatch Center. He has been a board member of the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis since 2005, and currently serves on the St. Louis County Fire Standards Commission.

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FEBRUARY 14, 2025

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Early next week, Governor Mike Kehoe will attend several meetings and events in Jefferson City.

On Monday, February 17, Governor Kehoe will be the keynote speaker for Missouri Eagle Scout Day at the Capitol. He will also meet with Congressman Bob Onder in the Governor's Office.

On Tuesday, February 18, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will host a group of Missouri House Representatives for lunch at the Governor's Mansion. Governor Kehoe will meet with firefighters in the Fire Service Leadership Enhancement Program as well as the British Consul General in Chicago, Mr. Richard Hyde, in the Governor's Office. He will also speak to the Hispanic Leaders Group of Greater St. Louis in the Capitol First Floor Rotunda.

Monday, February 17, 2025

           When:          12:00 p.m.  

           Where:        Missouri State Capitol - House Chamber

           Media:         Open

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FEBRUARY 14, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in Macon County on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from sunrise to sunset in honor of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Shelbe Faye Butner, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on January 30, 2025, while conducting a training exercise at Fort Stewart United States Army post in Georgia.

“Staff Sergeant Shelbe Faye Butner was dedicated to serving our country with honor, courage, and unwavering commitment,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “Staff Sergeant Butner considered the welfare of others a personal responsibility and was guided by her love of country to serve our nation. Her sacrifice reminds us of the bravery and dedication of the men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect our freedoms. Claudia and I join Shelbe's family and friends in honoring her service and mourning her loss.”

A 2015 graduate of Macon High School, Staff Sergeant Butner enlisted in the U.S. Army on June 1, 2015. She earned the Military Occupational Specialty Code 88M as an Army Motor Transport Operator and completed several advanced training courses, including the Army Basic Leader Course, Air Assault School, and Drill Sergeant School. She was assigned to the 6th Squadron - 8th Cavalry Regiment, where she was promoted to Staff Sergeant on August 1, 2022.

Staff Sergeant Butner was a proud and accomplished soldier, serving in the United States Army for nine years, including a tour in Kuwait. Throughout her career, Staff Sergeant Butner earned many commendations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War Expeditionary Medal, and numerous others.

The flags will be flown at half-staff on the day of Butner's interment services. To view the governor’s proclamation, click here.

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FEBRUARY 10, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-17 as a precautionary measure to prepare for hazardous winter weather expected to impact the State of Missouri starting tomorrow, Tuesday, February 11. The Order waives certain hours of service requirements for commercial vehicles transporting residential heating fuel and activates the Missouri National Guard for state and local response efforts, if needed.

"With hazardous winter weather forecasted for this week across much of the state, we want to be as prepared as possible," Governor Kehoe said. "We ask that all Missourians be proactive, stay aware, and use extreme caution during these potentially dangerous winter weather events. This Order helps ensure homes in Missouri can stay warm and that state government and our National Guard members stand ready to assist."

Executive Order 25-17 suspends hours of service regulations for motor carriers transporting residential heating fuels, including propane, natural gas, and heating oil. The Order also gives the Adjutant General of the State of Missouri the authority to call and order into active service such portions of the organized militia as he deems necessary to aid Missourians.

After a round of light snow primarily across the Ozarks Monday night into Tuesday, the National Weather Service forecasts a more significant winter storm to impact the state beginning overnight Tuesday into Wednesday. Heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain are expected to lead to widespread travel impacts. Mainly snow is expected north of the I-44 corridor with a chance of at least four inches across northern Missouri, and a wintery mix is expected along and south of the I-44 corridor.

Motorists are encouraged to postpone travel if possible. If you must travel, use extreme caution and check road conditions before driving to help determine if your trip can be completed safely. The Missouri Department of Transportation's (MoDOT) Traveler Information Map app can be accessed on desktop and mobile devices here.

Executive Order 25-17 will expire on March 10, 2025. To view the Order, please click here.

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FEBRUARY 7, 2025

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – On Monday, February 10, 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe will join Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) Director Chris Chinn, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Commissioner Karla Eslinger, and Missouri FFA leadership to kick off celebrations for National FFA Week in Missouri.

In honor of the FFA tradition of students driving their tractors to school during National FFA Week, Governor Kehoe and Director Chinn will kick off the celebrations by driving two tractors to the State Capitol. Governor Kehoe will drive a John Deere tractor from Heritage Tractor, and be joined by Missouri FFA President Andi Belt, from Leonard, Missouri. Director Chinn will drive a Farmall tractor from Crown Power, and will be accompanied by Commissioner Eslinger.

More than 300 FFA students from across the state will welcome them to the Capitol on the South lawn.

Immediately following the tractor drive, Governor Kehoe will present a proclamation designating February 15 - 22, 2025, as National FFA Week in Missouri during a ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda.

After the proclamation ceremony,  MDA and DESE will host a Career Day for Missouri FFA students in the Harry S. Truman State Office Building. 

Monday, February 10, 2025

Governor Kehoe to participate in Drive Your Tractor to Work Day

           When:          8:30 a.m.  

           Where:  &

FEBRUARY 7, 2025

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Next week, Governor Mike Kehoe will attend several meetings and events across the state.

On Monday, February 10, Governor Kehoe will drive a tractor to the State Capitol from the Governor's Mansion as part of the "Drive Your Tractor to Work Day" event celebrating FFA Week in Missouri.

Governor Kehoe will meet with the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Chicago, Mr. Junghan Kim. He will also welcome with the Australian Consul-General in Chicago, Mr. Chris Elstoft, and speak at the Missouri Farmers Care annual meeting in Jefferson City.

On Tuesday, February 11, Governor Kehoe will also host meet and greets with Centralia FFA students and Missouri Future Business Leaders of America students at the Capitol. Governor and First Lady Kehoe will then host Missouri House Representatives for lunch at the Governor's Mansion. That evening, Governor and First Lady will attend the 2025 Henry S. Geyer Award ceremony, hosted by the Mizzou Alumni Association at the Governor's Mansion.

On Wednesday, February 12, Governor Kehoe will speak at the Missouri Department of Economic Development Council (MEDC) Economic Issues Summit in Jefferson City. Governor and First Lady Kehoe will also host another group of Missouri House Representatives for lunch at the Governor's Mansion.

On Thursday, February 13, Governor Kehoe will travel to St. Louis to hold a press conference at the Old Post Office with State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick and State Treasurer Vivek Malek. He will also visit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis.

On Friday, February 14, Governor Kehoe will speak at the Missouri Governor's Student Leadership Forum at the Governor's Mansion.

On Saturday, February 15, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will travel to Kansas City for the 18th Annual Night in Blue Policeman's Ball.

Monday, February 10, 2025

Governor Kehoe to participate in Drive Your Tractor to Work Day

           When:          8:00 a.m.  

           Where:        Missouri's Governor's Mansion to State Capitol

           Media:         Open

  *Additional information on this event will be provided in a separate media advisory.

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Governor Kehoe to hold press conference announcing state office relocation in Downtown St. Louis

           When:          11:00 a.m.  

           Where:        Old Post Office - St. Louis

                               815 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO 63101

           Media:         Open

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FEBRUARY 7, 2025

Jefferson City — Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine red and gold beginning Friday, February 7, 2025, in celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl LIX appearance. The dome will shine red and gold from sunset to sunrise through Sunday, February 9.

Governor and First Lady Kehoe will cheer on the Chiefs from Missouri on Sunday night as they take on the Philadelphia Eagles at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, marking the Chiefs' third straight Super Bowl appearance.

"Missourians and fans across Chiefs Kingdom are once again celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs making it to the Super Bowl on this Red Friday," Governor Kehoe said. "We're proud to call the Kansas City Chiefs Missouri's team, and light our state's Capitol red and gold as the Chiefs seek a Super Bowl three-peat this Sunday."

Today, Governor Kehoe also announced a friendly bet with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro via social media, @GovMikeKehoe. As part of the wager with Governor Shapiro, Governor Kehoe has bet Missouri-grown beef and an assortment of Kansas City favorites, including Gates Bar-B-Q Sauce, Scott's Kitchen BBQ Sauce and Rub, and Chase Candy Company Cherry Mash.

"I'm predicting a 31-17 Chiefs Super Bowl victory," Governor Kehoe said. "I look forward to enjoying some Philly cheesesteaks from Governor Shapiro after the Chiefs bring home the Lombardi Trophy on Sunday."
 

Photos of the Capitol lighted red and gold will be available on Governor Kehoe's Flickr Page. 

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AUGUST 25, 2025

This week, Governor Mike Kehoe will attend several meetings and events across the state.

Today, Monday, August 25, Governor Kehoe will travel to Springfield to attend a groundbreaking for The Alliance for Healthcare Education.

On Wednesday, August 27, Governor Kehoe will travel to St. Louis for several meetings and to speak at the BioSTL Global Health Innovation Summit.

On Thursday, August 28, Governor Kehoe will tour Schneider Electric's O'Fallon location.

On Friday, August 29, Governor Kehoe will participate in a press conference for Project Level, an economic development project announcement.

Monday, August 25, 2025

Governor Kehoe to participate in The Alliance for Healthcare Education groundbreaking

When: 1:00 p.m.

Where: 1423 North Jefferson Avenue, Springfield, MO 65802

Media: Open

Friday, August 29, 2025

Governor Kehoe to participate in Project Level press conference

When: 9:00 a.m.

Where: Missouri Soybean Association, 734 South Country Club Drive, Jefferson City, MO 65109

Media: Open

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