Trump Declares Worth, Other Counties Federal Disaster Areas

On Tuesday, Governor Mike Kehoe announced that President Donald J. Trump has approved Missouri's request for a major disaster declaration for 34 Missouri counties heavily impacted by dangerous flash flooding, tornadoes, and intense straight-line winds from June 4-18, 2026.

“We thank President Trump for approving Missouri’s major disaster declaration for communities across the state – northwest, northeast, central, southwest and southeast Missouri – and greatly appreciate our congressional delegation’s support in securing this federal assistance in response to the June 4-18 storms, which will continue to support recovery efforts already underway,” Governor Kehoe said.

The President's action makes the FEMA Public Assistance program available to local governments and qualifying nonprofits for the repair and restoration of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure as well as reimbursement of emergency response costs in Adair, Andrew, Callaway, Camden, Cape Girardeau, Dade, Daviess, Gasconade, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Hickory, Holt, Jasper, Knox, Lewis, Linn, Macon, Marion, Mercer, Miller, Moniteau, Morgan, Newton, Nodaway, Osage, Polk, Putnam, Scott, Shelby, Sullivan, Vernon, Webster, and Worth Counties.

Governor Kehoe requested the federal disaster declaration on July 9, following joint Preliminary Damage Assessments with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and local officials. These joint PDAs validated more than $32.3 million in emergency response costs and damage to public infrastructure.

 

Opinion -- Governor Mike Kehoe Announces $10 Billion Amazon Data Center in Montgomery County

by Governor Mike Kehoe's Office. 

On Monday, Amazon announced its plans to invest $10 billion to construct a new, state-of-the-art data center campus in Montgomery City. Announced during a press conference with state leaders, community members, economic development and utility partners, the project is expected to create 400 new direct jobs, thousands of construction jobs, and generate significant economic activity through construction, infrastructure investment, and long-term operational growth in the region. Montgomery County estimates this investment will generate hundreds of millions of dollars in new property tax revenue over the next 25 years. (Editor -- This is in addition to the Google Data Center that was announced in Montgomery County in May. The combined value of the two data centers is $25 billion.)

“Today’s announcement represents more than a major investment in Missouri’s future—it represents new opportunities for Montgomery County and the surrounding region,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “Projects like this create lasting benefits for local communities by supporting critical infrastructure improvements, generating new tax revenue for schools and public services, and strengthening the foundation for future economic growth. Amazon’s continued investment into our state demonstrates confidence in Missouri’s workforce, business climate, and communities, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone alongside our local partners and residents.”

This investment builds on Amazon’s longstanding presence in Missouri as an employer of over 10,000 Missourians through a variety of facilities across the state. Amazon’s Missouri footprint includes fulfillment and sortation centers, delivery stations, Rural Super Rural delivery stations, and Whole Foods Market locations.

“Missouri has been home to Amazon since 2017 and more than 10,000 Missourians come to work with us every day. Today's announcement reflects what we've learned over those years: that when you show up as a real partner, listen to the community, and invest for the long term, everyone benefits," said David Zapolsky, Chief Global Affairs and Legal Officer at Amazon. "We're building data centers that will create hundreds of new jobs, support educators and students, and strengthen local infrastructure. That includes $3 million to support local emergency dispatch services, and more than $1 million for a new community gathering space at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds. Our investment matters most when the community is better for it.”

This $10 billion investment further strengthens Missouri’s growing role in the digital economy and supports increasing global demand for secure, reliable, and scalable cloud computing infrastructure.

“Behind every major investment are local leaders, utility partners, educators, and community members working together to create opportunities for the future,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “Amazon’s announcement in Montgomery County is a testament to what can be accomplished through strong collaboration and a shared commitment to growth. This project will help strengthen the region’s capacity for future development while reinforcing Missouri’s position as a destination for innovation and investment.”

Community Impact

Alongside its investment, Amazon is committing over $7 million in community contributions, including $3 million to support emergency dispatch services in Montgomery County, over $1 million for a new community gathering space at the County Fairgrounds and an additional $3 million in community programs. As part of those contributions, Amazon is launching a $150,000 Community Fund to provide grants for Montgomery County community projects.

Energy Accountability 

Amazon has worked with the local electric utility, Ameren Missouri, and will pay for 100% of the costs to provide electric service to this new data center campus in Montgomery County, including all costs with connecting to the energy grid, with no incentives or discounts on electric rates.

In 2025, Senate Bill 4 was passed by the General Assembly and signed by Governor Kehoe, requiring the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) to adopt rates for large load customers — including data centers — that reflect those customers’ share of their costs and prevented other customers — like residential and commercial customers — from being charged any unjust or unreasonable costs arising from service to large load customers. Learn more on utility tariffs for large load customers in Missouri.

Protecting Local Water Supply

The company is also working with agricultural technology company Arable Labs to implement technology to help Missouri farmers improve irrigation efficiency, eliminate unnecessary watering and help reduce groundwater withdrawals. The project is expected to reduce water use by 100 million gallons of water.

Learn more on Missouri's efforts to ensure the effective management of natural resources surrounding data centers from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. 

What Others are Saying

“We are proud to welcome Amazon to Montgomery County,” said Ryan Poston, Montgomery County Presiding Commissioner. “This investment represents a tremendous opportunity for our community and will help create new opportunities for our workforce, local businesses, schools, and future generations.”

“Amazon's investment in Montgomery County reinforces Missouri’s strong position as a hub for innovation and a state with an exceptionally skilled workforce,” said Martin J. Lyons Jr., Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ameren Corporation. “We applaud local and state leaders who support economic growth and job creation while ensuring that consumers are protected. At Ameren, we are committed to serving all our customers with reliable service at the lowest possible cost."

“We are excited about the long-term opportunities this investment brings to Montgomery County,” said Brent Speight, Chairman of the Greater Montgomery Economic Development Council. “Amazon’s commitment to the region will help drive economic growth, strengthen our local economy, and support future development opportunities throughout the county.”

"Amazon's decision to continue investing in Missouri is a testament to the partnerships and people that make our state a great place to grow,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “These investments deliver benefits that extend well beyond the project itself – supporting local businesses, creating career opportunities, and strengthening communities across the state. We look forward to Amazon's continued success in Missouri and the positive impact it will have for years to come."

Bill to Phase Out Income Tax to be on August Ballot

A bill to phase out the Missouri Income Tax over five years and replace it with higher sales taxes will appear on the August ballot, Fox 2 KC reported. The Missouri legislature would have the authority to increase sales and use taxes to make up for lost revenue. The reductions would be based on revenue growth. The legislature would have five years to decide which additional sales to tax without needing another vote of the people.

The Source, a student paper out of Washington University in St. Louis, reported on January 21st that experts fear that the burden of costs would shift disproportionately on lower-income people. The Missouri state income tax represents 60-70% of the general revenue fund. Currently, Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming do not have state income taxes.

The Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, a non-profit non-partisan tax policy organization, called the measure an “anti-affordability agenda.” They estimate that if approved, the measure would increase costs of people making between $49,000 and $78,000 a year by about $535 per year. For Missourians with even less income, between $24,000 and $49,000 per year, the costs would be $850 more per year. This is in addition to costs from skyrocketing gas costs and other costs due to the Iran War.

Fox 2 quotes the Tax Foundation as saying that income tax policies, although not the primary motivation, can play a role in attracting people to states. Texas, Florida, and Tennessee all ranked in the top five for net interstate migration, while high-tax states like California, New York, and New Jersey ranked near the bottom.

 

Opinion -- Governor Kehoe Announces $15 Billion Google Data Center in Montgomery County

By Governor Mike Kehoe’s Office

On Wednesday, at a community celebration in Montgomery County, Google announced a new $15 billion investment in building infrastructure in New Florence, Missouri. The historic investment is built on a commitment to responsibly increase local infrastructure capacity, expand energy affordability programs, and fund thousands of jobs in the region.

“Google’s historic investment in Montgomery County is a testament to Missouri’s growing reputation as a premier destination for innovation and next-generation technology,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “Beyond the significant economic impact and job creation, Google has demonstrated a true commitment to strengthening the community through local partnerships, investments, grants, and support for area businesses. This project represents more than infrastructure - it’s an investment in Missouri families, communities, and long-term opportunity. We are proud to partner with companies like Google that are helping drive economic growth while making a meaningful difference in the communities they call home.”

“We look forward to expanding Google’s investments in Missouri and helping Missourians benefit from the next wave of American innovation,” said Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google. “To deliver the upside of technology, we are investing in workforce development and energy affordability, both directly and through our partnerships with local organizations. This commitment will provide thousands of Missourians with valuable technical and trade skills, while supporting energy affordability for residents in Montgomery County and across the state.”

“This project will deliver lasting economic benefits through new investment, support for local businesses, and meaningful community partnerships that help create opportunities for Missourians,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “Google’s commitment to community engagement, workforce development, and local initiatives demonstrates the type of corporate partnership that helps communities grow and prosper for generations to come.”

Creating Local Jobs and Supporting Economic Opportunity

Google data centers serve as powerful economic engines, with every direct position generating nearly nine additional roles locally - spanning specialized construction, HVAC repair, maintenance, and landscaping. This powerful multiplier effect is clear in Missouri, where the project will create thousands of construction jobs over the build period and hundreds of direct, long-term operational roles once the facility is up and running.

To help prepare Missourians for skilled job opportunities, Google is collaborating with the Construction Laborers and Contractors Joint Training Fund of Eastern Missouri to support the Laborers and Contractors Training Center. This project will enable the center to train more than 2,300 construction laborers, including 1,500 apprentices, over the next two years.

These workforce development investments complement Google’s Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) Program in Kansas City that equips local talent with the entry-level skills needed for rewarding careers in construction and the trades. To date, nearly 130 Missourians have graduated from the program, with the majority now actively employed in related construction or trade roles. Also in Kansas City, the company is supporting a major new workforce development facility and expanding K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) programs to prepare students with the in-demand skills and digital capabilities needed for the future economy. 

To further root Google’s commitment to Missouri, Google is helping launch a first-of-its-kind mobile sensory and accessibility resource center at festivals, sporting events, schools, and community gatherings across Missouri to remove barriers to community participation.

Increasing Local Infrastructure Capacity and Expanding Energy Affordability 

In accordance with Missouri's consumer protections in Senate Bill 4, which Governor Kehoe signed into law in 2025, Google will continue to pay for 100% of the power the data center uses and any new infrastructure costs that are directly driven by its operations.

To date, Google has contracted to bring more than one gigawatt (GW) of new generation capacity to Missouri, and, through its partnership with Ameren, the company is supporting the development of more than 500 megawatts (MW) of additional capacity. Google also worked with Ameren and Evergy to bring the Capacity Commitment Framework (CCF) to Missouri, which ensures it and other large energy customers pay for their electricity and infrastructure needs, protect local ratepayers, and actively bolster the long-term resilience of the electrical grid.

To further address energy affordability, Google has also announced a $20 million Energy Impact Fund to support programs that drive down monthly energy bills for Missouri households - focused on Montgomery, Clay, Platte, and other counties surrounding Google’s planned data centers in Kansas City and New Florence. 

One of the first fund recipients will be North East Community Action Corporation (NECAC), which will undertake critical home repairs and energy efficiency upgrades in and around Montgomery County. Funding will also support the NECAC Weatherization Apprenticeship Program by expanding its capacity and providing new equipment and tools to repair crews.

Protecting Local Water Supply

Google is committed to responsibly managing water resources where it builds and operates data centers and ensuring its growth never comes at the expense of the communities it calls home. The Montgomery County data center will use advanced air-cooling technology, limiting water consumption to uses like kitchens. Google replenishes more freshwater than it consumes by supporting local watershed projects like the Missouri SWAN Smart Irrigation Initiative, which protects surface and groundwater supplies by helping participating farms optimize irrigation and reduce runoff.

What Others are Saying

“We are proud to welcome Google’s investment in our community,” said Ryan Poston, Montgomery County Presiding Commissioner. “This project represents a major step forward in economic development - driving job creation, expanding our tax base to help reduce property tax for local citizens, and creating resilient long-term growth for Montgomery County. It’s a clear example of what strong partnerships can accomplish.”

“Google’s major investment in Montgomery County reflects what’s possible through strong partnerships with local and state officials to support significant economic growth,” said Martin J. Lyons Jr., Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Ameren Corporation. “This is the largest economic development project in Ameren Missouri’s service territory, and our new large load rate structure is designed to ensure we continue to deliver safe, reliable electric service for all customers at the lowest cost possible, with robust protections and generational benefits for the communities we serve.”

“NECAC is very excited to partner with Google and have the opportunity to weatherize more homes and make them energy efficient,” said Carla Potts, Deputy Director of Housing Development Programs, North East Community Action Corporation. “Our core mission has always been to empower low-income families and strengthen our neighborhoods, and central to this is ensuring home energy costs are truly affordable. With this partnership, we are directly addressing the burden of high utility bills through vital home repairs and upgrades, while investing in our future workforce.”

“You can’t build the infrastructure of the future without investing in the workforce of today," said Brandon Flinn, Business Manager, Missouri-Kansas Laborers' District Council. “Google understands that meaningful community investment means supporting the local workers. This collaboration significantly expands our ability to recruit, train, and graduate the next generation of construction craft laborers. By aligning technical infrastructure projects with robust workforce programs, we are creating family-sustaining career opportunities that strengthen local communities, support working families, and fuel Missouri’s economy for generations to come.”

“For years, our community has worked strategically to prepare for transformational investment opportunities like this, and today that vision is becoming a reality,” said Brent Speight, Chairman, Greater Montgomery Economic Development Council. “Google’s decision to invest in a new data center here is a testament to the strength of our infrastructure, workforce, leadership, and long-term economic development planning. Beyond the immediate construction activity and high-quality jobs this project will create, the long-term tax revenues generated by this investment will provide meaningful support for our local schools, public services, and community priorities for decades to come. This project represents more than economic growth - it is an investment in the future of our residents, students, and region as a whole.”

“Google’s continued growth in Missouri reflects both the strength of our state and the company’s long-term commitment to the communities where it operates,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “Across Missouri, Google has demonstrated that it is more than an industry leader - it is a strong corporate citizen that invests in local partnerships, workforce development, and community impact. This investment in Montgomery County represents another significant milestone for our state and reinforces Missouri’s position as a leading destination for technology and innovation.”

 

Opinion -- Governor Kehoe Signs Three Bills

By Governor Mike Kehoe’s Office

On Tuesday, April 7th, during a bill signing ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Governor Mike Kehoe signed three pieces of legislation into law: Senate Bill (SB) 888, and House Bills (HB) 1908 and 2273. 

SB 888, sponsored by Senator Nick Schroer and Representative Brad Christ, modifies provisions relating to the criminal systems.

—Allows for record sharing to enhance the ability of law enforcement and prosecutors to track cases and juvenile adjudication history. 

—Adds increased penalties for sexual criminal offenses.

—Supports sentencing reform efforts by streamlining processes and adding transparency in parole eligibility calculation.

"Missouri must address the revolving door for repeat violent offenders—and that includes juveniles," said Governor Kehoe. "I would like to thank the members of the General Assembly for getting this priority legislation to my desk. This bill delivers for law enforcement, prosecutors, and the safety of our communities by giving our criminal justice system the authority to respond to serious juvenile and adult offenses and strengthening sentencing transparency. Together, we are continuing to build on our Safer Missouri public safety initiative."

HB 1908, sponsored by Representatives Cecelie Williams and Raychel Proudie and Senator Jill Carter, modifies provisions relating to the dissolution of marriage or legal separation and pregnancy status.

—Clarifies that pregnancy status shall not be used to prevent courts from granting divorce or legal separation.

"If we are serious about protecting life, we must also be serious about protecting vulnerable women and mothers," said Governor Kehoe. "House Bill 1908 ensures that pregnancy is never used as a barrier to prevent a woman from seeking a divorce in unsafe situations. I appreciate Representative Williams for her leadership and courage in sharing her story, and thank the General Assembly for its unanimous support of this important legislation." 

HB 2273, sponsored by Representative Ed Lewis and Senator Jill Carter, modifies and establishes provisions relating to the protection of children and vulnerable persons.

—Increases penalties for sex offenses involving minors.

—Modifies statute for penalties for sharing or threatening to share a photo of a sex act that have been created or altered using digital manipulation.

—Strengthens Missouri's efforts to combat child sex trafficking. 

"Missouri will not tolerate those who exploit or harm our most vulnerable—especially our children," said Governor Kehoe. "This bill strengthens Missouri law to keep pace with evolving threats, while protecting those most at risk. By signing this legislation into law we're sending a clear message: if you harm a child, you will face the consequences." 

Opinion -- Governor Kehoe Authorizes National Guard Deployment

By Governor Mike Kehoe’s Office

Governor Mike Kehoe announced Tuesday, September 30th that he has authorized the Missouri National Guard (MONG) to assist with administrative, clerical, and logistical duties at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) processing facilities within the State of Missouri. This decision comes in response to a request for assistance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to the Department of War (DOW) to ensure the resources and personnel needed to effectively enforce immigration laws and maintain operational control of the border.

Missouri National Guard service members will provide support starting October 1, 2025, by assisting with tasks such as data entry, case management, and logistical support, enabling ICE personnel to focus on core enforcement and security functions. MONG personnel who have been assigned to this mission were selected on a volunteer basis.

“Public safety, keeping Missourians safe, and upholding the rule of law is our administration's top priority,” said Governor Kehoe. “The Missouri National Guard is uniquely equipped to provide this essential administrative support, and we are confident their contributions will be invaluable to immigration enforcement efforts. Missouri is proud to join in the Trump administration's efforts to keep our state and nation secure.”

On July 25, 2025, the Secretary of War Pete Hegseth approved the duty status of DOW military personnel providing support at ICE processing facilities allowing for Title 32 duty status, which is a federally funded status under authority of the Governor. The Missouri National Guard regularly works alongside local, state, and federal agencies in support roles to ensure the safety and security of communities.

Military personnel are authorized to be on duty for this mission through September 30, 2026.

 

Opinion -- Petition Calls for Clemency in Death Penalty Case

By Missourians to Abolish the Death Penalty

In less than two weeks, the State of Missouri intends to execute Lance Shockley despite serious, unresolved questions about his guilt. Shockley was sentenced to death for the 2005 murder of MSHP Sergeant Carl Dewayne Graham Jr., but his case has long been marred by circumstantial evidence, a deadlocked jury, and the courts’ refusal to allow testing of more than a dozen untested DNA items from the crime scene.

On October 7, 2025, Missourians to Abolish the Death Penalty (MADP), joined by faith leaders, civil rights advocates, and community members, will deliver over 4,000 petition signatures to Governor Kehoe urging him to grant clemency. The delivery comes one week before Shockley’s scheduled execution on October 14 at 6:00 PM CST.

This marks the first time Governor Kehoe will face the life-or-death decision of clemency as Missouri’s leader. Advocates say the Governor’s response will test whether his Catholic pro-life values align with allowing the state to take a life of its own citizens.  

The press conference will take place on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 12:00 PM CST at the Missouri State Capitol Building, Capital Rotunda. The petition delivery to the Governor will follow. 

“People around the country feel defeated with our continuation of state-sanctioned murder and the trauma it imposes upon its citizens, including correctional staff,” said Nimrod Chapel, Jr., President of NAACP-Missouri.

“Crimes against law enforcement are deeply emotional, but emotion cannot replace evidence. Lance Shockley’s conviction rested on circumstantial evidence and a divided jury. To this day, Missouri has refused to test more than a dozen items from the crime scene. Before the state takes a life, the least we can demand is the truth that science can provide,” said Heidi S. Moore, Ph.D., Executive Director of MADP.

“Governor Kehoe has a clear choice: allow an execution to move forward based on unanswered questions, or pause and permit DNA testing that could bring clarity, truth, and justice. Missourians deserve a system that values fairness over finality,” Moore added.

At Shockley’s original trial, the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict. Missouri law allows a judge to impose a death sentence in cases of jury deadlock, which occurred in Shockley’s case. Despite repeated requests, courts have refused to allow testing of multiple items from the crime scene that could confirm Shockley’s innocence or implicate another suspect. Since 1989, Missouri has recorded 56 exonerations, 22 of which involved flawed forensic evidence.

Missourians to Abolish the Death Penalty is dedicated to advocating for the abolition of the death penalty in Missouri. The organization works to educate the public, support those affected by capital punishment, and promote humane alternatives to execution. Learn more at www.madpmo.org.

 

Opinion -- ACLU Condemns Deployment of Missouri National Guard

By the ACLU of Missouri

The American Civil Liberties Union and ACLU of Missouri Wednesday condemned Governor Mike Kehoe's authorization of Missouri National Guard troops to provide administrative, clerical and logistical support at ICE processing facilities in Missouri. Gov. Kehoe’s move comes in response to a request for assistance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to the Department of Defense.

"Despite denying the deployment of troops in Missouri just days ago, Governor Kehoe's announcement threatens people and businesses across the state and ignores the needs of the St. Louis community that is still in the midst of clean up from a devastating tornado,” said Luz María Henríquez, executive director at the ACLU of Missouri. “The Governor failed to provide basic information, including an order defining the parameters and objective, to prepare Missourians for this unprecedented act. With the backdrop of masked immigration agents breaking apart our families and communities, it is particularly concerning that the Governor is asking Guard members to voluntarily participate in this agenda. At the same time, he is failing to provide resources to the communities impacted by a natural disaster. These politicized actions embolden the administration in D.C. – they do not protect communities in Missouri."

According to a news release issued by Gov. Kehoe’s office, Missouri National Guard members will assist with tasks such as data entry, case management and logistical support. They are authorized to provide ICE support until September 30, 2026.

Governor Kehoe’s authorization comes just hours after Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landy requested 1,000 National Guard troops to assist with law enforcement. Already, the Trump administration has deployed armed federal agents and National Guard troops to Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Memphis, and Portland under false and inflammatory justifications and to crackdown on protesters exercising their First Amendment rights. To date, the use of the military and the National Guard for immigration-related purposes has been limited to border operations, such as wall construction, and monitoring, detection, and logistical support for civilian agencies.

“National Guard troops should be reserved for genuine emergencies, not deployed to suit the president’s political whims,” said Naureen Shah, director of policy and government affairs for the ACLU’s Equality Division. “Deploying state National Guard troops to further the Trump administration's deportation of our loved ones and neighbors is a waste of taxpayer resources that will harm entire communities.”