(DailyEmailNews.com) – Missouri’s Republican Governor Mike Parson has secured a decisive victory in the battle for appointing the next St. Louis County prosecutor.
The Missouri appeals court ruling restated the governor’s constitutional authority, dealing a blow to Democrat attempts to control this key law enforcement position.
The court’s decision settles a heated fight between Governor Parson and St. Louis County Executive Sam Page, a Democrat who wanted to forcefully take over the governor’s appointment power.
Melissa Price Smith, a seasoned 56-year-old assistant prosecutor with over a decade of experience in the St. Louis County office, will now take the post as the new prosecuting attorney.
Her appointment by Governor Parson promises to bring stability and experience to the role.
In contrast, the Democrat county executive wanted to appoint a younger, less experienced candidate.
The appeals court’s decision sends a clear message: the governor’s office holds the constitutional and statutory authority to fill this critical vacancy.
As Judge John P. Torbitzky stated, “Because the prosecuting attorney performs essential state functions as a state officer, the governor has the constitutional and statutory authority to make the appointment to fill the vacancy.”
This ruling upholds the principle that state-level authority comes first in matters of such importance.
It prevents local Democrat officials from bypassing the established order and ensures that the governor’s mandate to maintain law and order is respected.
The court’s decision rebuffed attempts by local Democrats to install their preferred candidate, 36-year-old Cort VanOstran.
VanOstran’s relative inexperience raised concerns about his ability to effectively lead the prosecutor’s office.
By choosing Smith, with her extensive background in the St. Louis County prosecutor’s office since 2008, Governor Parson showcases a commitment to putting qualified professionals in key roles.
This appointment ensures the expertise needed to handle the county’s legal matters, which is particularly important given the rising concerns about crime and public safety.
As Smith prepares to be sworn in, she will replace Wesley Bell, who was elected to Congress.
While an election for a full term as prosecuting attorney is scheduled for 2026, this ruling sets an important precedent regarding the governor’s authority.
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