Democrat Chris Koster is the clear choice in this race. Not only does he have the experience
and proper inclination for the job, but his opponent is not well suited.
I first met Koster when he was a Republican state senator. I was impressed then and
even more so when he switched parties for the best of reasons: He had become
disillusioned with Republicans’ opposition to stem cell research and other anti-science
leanings.
From this political genesis, he has become an exemplar of a political type many people
support: a fiscal conservative and a cultural liberal.
In this election he is endorsed by an array of interest groups usually associated with
conservatives, including the NRA, the Farm Bureau and public safety groups, reflecting
Koster’s background as a prosecuting attorney in Cass County and a Republican legislator.
At the same time he, is supported by the AFL-CIO and other union groups. He reflects a
Missouri tradition, the conservative Democrat. (Some of Koster’s wide-ranging support
no doubt stems from his position as election front-runner.)
In a recent visit I was impressed anew, this time with Koster’s evolved political sense,
particularly his determination and, I think, his ability to collaborate more effectively
with members of the Missouri General Assembly. He made a point of his admiration for
and ability to communicate well with House Speaker Todd Richardson. Current Gov.
Jay Nixon is often criticized for a chilly relationship with the legislature that exaggerates
the gulf between the Democratic governor and the Republican General Assembly.
Koster exudes a more optimistic expectation. For instance, he anticipates a more promising conversation about expanding Medicaid, a persistent sticking point over the past few
years that has left Missouri on the wrong side of the issue.
In contrast, Republican Eric Greitens has no such heritage. He deserves respect for his
military service but is a total neophyte in political experience. Being an outsider is not a
good alternative to good experience. Greitens has adopted harsh conservative positions.
As governor, he would ratify far-right initiatives put forward by legislative Republicans.
If Koster handily wins the gubernatorial race as expected, let us hope he and lawmakers
of the other party will have reason to make more bipartisan progress than we have seen
lately. Admittedly this is asking a lot, but Koster’s clear attitude of collaboration is hope-
ful. As a Republican senator, he made a record among majority members. I look forward
to a Koster regime with enthusiasm.
Chris Koster for Missouri governor.