Show Me State Showing: Missouri Gov. Mike Parson Bests Democratic Challenger in Race Where School Reopenings Were Top Issue

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Missouri Governor Mike Parson, after securing 57 percent of the vote, has been re-elected for a second term. State Auditor Nicole Galloway received 41 percent of the vote.

Parson, previously serving as lieutenant governor, assumed the highest office in Missouri in 2018 following the resignation of Eric Greitens. With experience in both statehouse chambers, Parson’s campaign closely aligned with President Donald Trump. In line with Trump’s stance, Parson strongly advocated for the resumption of in-person classes in the fall, asserting that students face minimal risk and would recover if infected with COVID-19. Despite these statements, Parson did not enact a statewide mandate for school reopenings or impose mask-wearing and social distancing requirements, leaving such decisions to local district officials. As a result, as COVID-19 cases surged in Missouri, Parson’s approval ratings declined and the race became more competitive.

In September, both Parson and his wife tested positive for COVID-19. Fortunately, neither of them experienced any symptoms.

In contrast, Galloway emphasized the need for clearer state guidelines on when and how schools could reopen. She criticized Parson for his slow response at the beginning of the pandemic, accusing him of delaying the closure of schools until it was too late. Galloway argued that Parson failed to adequately prepare for their reopening during the subsequent three months.

Back in August, Kevin Mahnken analyzed the election, offering insights into the contest.

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