The Star endorses Barbara Anne Washington in Democratic primary for Missouri Senate seat
Democratic primary voters in Missouri’s Senate District 9 will choose between two elected officials vying for the seat vacated this year by former state Sen. Kiki Curls.
State Rep. Barbara Anne Washington and Raytown Alderman Ryan Myers are seeking to replace Curls, a Democrat who resigned in January to serve on Missouri’s Labor and Industrial Relations Commission.
While both candidates bring relevant experience and a thoughtful approach to this primary, Washington, an experienced legislator who has represented Missouri House District 23 since 2017, is the standout choice in this crucial race. District 9 includes a large swath of southeastern Kansas City and Raytown, and the next state senator to hold this seat must be an effective advocate for the metro area’s interests in a legislature that too often gives short shrift to Kansas City.
A former reporter and now an attorney, Washington is prepared to hit the ground running in the Republican-controlled Missouri General Assembly, where the ability to compromise and broker deals is a must.
Both candidates support Medicaid expansion in Missouri and are committed to reducing violent crime. But Myers offered fewer details and was noncommittal on questions about Missouri’s anything-goes gun laws.
“One thing I do want to take a look at is possibly working with our secondary schools on conflict resolution,” he said.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREWho decides the endorsements?
Members of The Kansas City Star Editorial Board interview political candidates, as well as advocates and opponents of ballot measures. The editorial board is comprised of seasoned opinion journalists and is separate from The Star’s newsroom. The board’s members are editorial writers Toriano Porter and Mara’ Rose Williams — all veteran journalists with decades of experience. Editors Derek Donovan is also a member, and editor David Tarrant, while not a member of the board, reads and often improves each editorial we publish. Read more by clicking the arrow in the upper right.
What does the endorsement process entail?
The Star Editorial Board invites candidates in each race to meet with the board in an on-the-record discussion, the purpose of which is more fully understand what distinguishes one candidate from another. Board members do additional reporting and research to learn as much as possible about the candidates. The editorial board then convenes to discuss the candidates in each race. Board members seek to reach a consensus on the endorsements, but not every decision is unanimous..
Is the editorial board partisan?
No. In making endorsements, members of the editorial board consider which candidates are well prepared to represent their constituents — not whether they agree with us or belong to a particular political party. We do weigh heavily their stances on issues we consider basic tests of judgment and candor, such as whether they even acknowledge climate change as real, or if they continue to deny the legitimacy of the 2020 presidential election. We weigh these factors against many others, and state clearly what our conclusions are. Primarily, we evaluate candidates’ relevant experience, their readiness for office, their depth of knowledge of key issues and their understanding of public policy. We’re seeking candidates who are thoughtful and who offer more than just party-line talking points. The editorial board will endorse both Republicans and Democrats, making recommendations about who the best-qualified candidate for each job is.
Why are endorsements unsigned?
Endorsements reflect the collective views of The Star’s editorial board — not just the opinion of one writer. Board members all discuss and contribute ideas to each endorsement editorial.
Kansas City and St. Louis are both on pace for a record number of homicides in 2020.
Washington was more direct about the need for tougher gun laws.
“We don’t really have a law for someone under 18 carrying a gun,” she said. “We need further registration. We need a wait before you get a gun. This is something that I won’t agree with my (Republican) colleagues on, but they’re going to listen to me, and I’m going to listen to them.”
Washington, who serves as secretary for the House Minority Caucus, has gained valuable experience on several key House committees that will serve her well if she makes the move to the state Senate.
Myers, a commercial real estate appraiser and brewer, laudably is committed to working across the aisle and seeking solutions, but he would face a much steeper learning curve in Jefferson City.
Washington spoke passionately and knowledgeably about pressing issues affecting Kansas Citians, including the need for local control of the city’s police department.
Myers appeared to waffle on the same questions. His “I’m always open to conversation,” approach lacked specifics and a clear vision.
To his credit, Myers was eager to learn more about some of the complex issues facing the district.
But Washington, who would transition seamlessly from the Missouri House to the Senate, is the better choice in the Aug. 4 Democratic primary, and she’s earned The Star’s endorsement.
This story was originally published July 28, 2020 at 5:00 AM.