This week’s split show features insight from the Politically Speaking crew and a visit from a political figure from the western side of the state – state Sen. Paul LeVota.
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The first part of the show breaks down the latest developments in the state budgetary process and the advancement of a sales tax increase to fund transportation projects. Capitol reporter Marshall Griffin fills in for the vacationing Jo Mannies.
For the second part of the show, Chris McDaniel and Jason Rosenbaum talk with LeVota. The Democrat from Independence previously served as minority leader in the Missouri House and is leading efforts this year to increase his party’s numbers in the Missouri Senate.
During the show, LeVota said:
- “Straight up” Medicaid expansion isn’t likely to pass in the GOP-controlled General Assembly. So the more likely possibility is some sort of “Missouri solution” that expands eligibility while making wholesale changes to the program.
- He expects Senate Democrats to continue to oppose “right to work” legislation. That’s the shorthand used to describe legislation stipulating that workers do not have to join a union or pay dues or a representation fee, even when employees have voted to organize a union.
- Democrats are looking several elections ahead to improve their lot in the Missouri Senate. LeVota’s party currently holds 9 out of 34 seats in the General Assembly’s upper chamber, and he’s hoping to increase that number to 11 in 2015.
Follow Chris McDaniel on Twitter: @csmcdaniel
Follow Jason Rosenbaum on Twitter: @jrosenbaum
Follow Marshall Griffin on Twitter: @MarshallGReport
Follow Paul LeVota on Twitter: @PaulLevota
