The Kansas City Star’s endorsement in the Nov. 5 election for Missouri treasurer | Opinion

Here is the candidate we endorse for treasurer in Missouri for the general election. For more information about the Nov. 5 election, check out our Voter Guide, a collaboration between The Kansas City Star and the KC Media Collective. See all our published endorsements on our Elections Recommendations page.

Democrat Mark Osmack has earned our endorsement in the race for Missouri treasurer. “It’s not the sexiest seat,” he said, demonstrating a firm grip on reality. “It’s a great opportunity to grow with the state, but to monitor and make sure the state’s purse, and the people’s money, is spent correctly.”

In his interview with the editorial board, he told us the role of treasurer is important, yet sometimes flies under the radar. The Missouri Constitution says the treasurer “shall be custodian of all state funds,” which is pretty much the job. It’s refreshing to find a candidate for statewide office in Missouri who understands this.

Osmack is fourth-generation Missourian living in St. Louis. He’s a husband and father of two young daughters with a baby due in February. He attended public schools, and as a soldier deployed to war twice.

Osmack’s opponent is Vivek Malek, who was appointed to the position by Gov. Mike Parson. For some strange reason, Malek has made immigration enforcement the centerpiece of his argument for election as treasurer.

Osmack is concerned that Malek has been almost singularly focused on the Texas-Mexico border. “My focus is only on Missouri — Missouri money and Missouri, period.” That’s another reason Osmack has earned our recommendation.