JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Governor Mike Kehoe delivered his first State of the State address with a clear vision: making Missouri safer, stronger, and better through collaboration and decisive action.
During his speech, Kehoe highlighted several firsts that symbolize progress for the state. He celebrated Missouri’s first World Cup hosting event in 2026, Jon Patterson’s role as the first Asian American Missouri House Speaker, and his own journey as Missouri’s first governor raised by a single mother.
“I will never forget my roots,” Kehoe assured the General Assembly. “I’ve sat where you sit. I understand the pressures you face. And I want to work with you—not against you—because securing Missouri’s future depends on us working together.”
Public Safety: The Core of Kehoe’s Agenda
Governor Kehoe emphasized public safety as the foundation for the state’s progress. He explained that efforts to improve education, reduce taxes, or expand child care would mean little if Missourians do not feel safe.
Kehoe’s administration has already taken steps in this direction. Just days after being sworn in, he signed six executive orders focused on public safety. These orders were designed to reduce violent crime and strengthen law enforcement resources.
“Our work on day one was just the start,” Kehoe said. “Securing Missouri’s future begins with public safety.”
Key highlights of Kehoe’s safety plan include:
- Cracking Down on Violent Crimes: The administration is targeting violent crimes through prevention and enforcement measures.
- Support for Law Enforcement: Kehoe’s budget includes increased funding for law enforcement recruitment and retention, providing critical support to officers on the ground.
- Addressing Drug-Related Deaths: Kehoe announced a hardline approach to combating fentanyl, stating, “If a drug dealer sells fentanyl that kills a Missourian, they should be tried for first-degree murder.”
- Fentanyl Testing in Schools: The state will double its funding for testing school sewer systems for fentanyl, ensuring the safety of children across Missouri.
Kehoe also pledged to enhance the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s role in enforcing immigration laws. Echoing former President Trump’s statement that “every state is a border state,” Kehoe highlighted the importance of addressing immigration-related challenges
Economic Development and Child Care Reform
Beyond public safety, Governor Kehoe laid out plans to improve the state’s economic landscape. His proposals aim to streamline processes, reduce burdens, and support families and businesses alike.
Key components of his economic plan include:
- Slashing Taxes: Kehoe emphasized his administration’s commitment to cutting taxes and making Missouri more business-friendly.
- Reforming Child Care Access: Kehoe proposed clearing backlogs in child care provider payments and changing payment structures. Providers will now receive payments based on enrollment rather than attendance, ensuring more consistent financial support.
- Encouraging Employer-Supported Child Care: To ease the burden on families, the governor suggested creating pathways for businesses to offer child care benefits to employees.
“While the state can’t carry the entire burden of this issue, we can partner with families, employers, and providers to find solutions,” Kehoe said.
Democratic lawmakers welcomed Kehoe’s efforts to resolve long-standing issues in the child care system. Representative Betsy Fogle (D-Springfield) acknowledged the need for strong leadership to hold departments accountable, especially in light of recent challenges faced by child care providers.
Bipartisanship and Collaboration
Governor Kehoe’s commitment to working across party lines was another highlight of his address. He promised to collaborate with lawmakers, regardless of their political affiliations, to create a safer and more prosperous Missouri.
“This is my promise to you: I will talk to anyone, work with anyone, and root for anyone who has a good idea to make our state safer, stronger, and better,” Kehoe said.
Safer Missouri Initiative: A Multi-Phase Plan
Kehoe’s public safety efforts include the “Safer Missouri” initiative, which was launched on his first day in office. Developed in collaboration with law enforcement agencies across the state, this initiative outlines a multi-phase approach to reducing crime, supporting police officers, and fostering community partnerships.
The six executive orders signed by Kehoe include:
- Enhanced law enforcement training for immigration enforcement.
- A call for better cooperation between state and federal agencies.
- Expanded resources for law enforcement retention.
- Initiatives to reduce violent crime rates in high-risk areas.
- Crackdowns on drug-related offenses.
- Increased funding for public safety programs.
Kehoe’s operating budget for fiscal year 2025 totals $51.8 billion, with $25.7 billion coming from federal funds.
Looking Ahead
Governor Kehoe’s first State of the State address set the tone for his administration’s priorities. From public safety and child care reform to tax cuts and crime reduction, Kehoe emphasized the importance of collaboration and swift action to secure Missouri’s future.
As Kehoe continues his first term, his administration’s ability to deliver on these promises will determine the success of his ambitious agenda.
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