We commend Gov. Mike Parson for choosing to fill the lieutenant governor's seat quickly and for his choice, Sen. Mike Kehoe.
In his statement in accepting the appointment, Kehoe said: "Like the governor, I believe that public service is a privilege that no one should take lightly. Governor, you have my commitment that I will work tirelessly to bring about many more great days for Missouri and for Missourians (and) I am humbled by the confidence placed in me."
These won't be empty words, judging from his past experience.
Kehoe is a hard-working, conservative public servant, in addition to being a husband, and the father of four children. For the past 7 years, he has served his constituents in the 6th senatorial district well. With his experience, knowledge and work ethic, we believe Kehoe will serve the entire state well as the lieutenant governor.
Even before Parson vacated the lieutenant governor's post to become governor, a legal question existed as to whether any governor has the ability to appoint someone to the lieutenant governor's post.
Both sides legally can be argued, but a growing amount of bipartisan support - including from former governors Jay Nixon, Matt Blunt, Kit Bond, Bob Holden and Roger Wilson - suggests he can. Despite that, the Missouri Democratic Party has sued to block the appointment.
"As Attorney General and later Governor, I research this issued extensively and firmly believe the Governor has the authority to fill a vacancy in this office by appointment," Nixon said.
Parson saw it needed to be done, and he did it.
Kehoe was a logical choice.
The Jefferson City Republican burst onto the political scene in 2010 when he was elected to the Missouri Senate. Normally, you work your way up to the Missouri Senate. However, Kehoe already had name recognition in Mid-Missouri as a successful car dealer and then as a member, then chairman of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission.
As a senator, Kehoe has focused on transportation, commerce and education issues, among other things.
Kehoe didn't have a logical path to move up the political ladder. He was term-limited and finishing his last term in the Senate. He couldn't seek most higher offices without challenging an incumbent from his own party. That wasn't a likely move for a party loyalist and team player like Kehoe.
He had not announced publicly his next career move.
Now, Mid-Missouri will have a voice that's a step away from the governor's office. And the state will have lieutenant governor with a proven track record of getting things done in the Capitol.