As the republic trembles, let’s distract ourselves with libraries and campaign-finance reform
Let’s take a look at the fine deck chairs the White Star Line has chosen for the RMS Titanic, shall we?
Missouri voters rejected two separate proposals to raise the nation’s lowest cigarette tax. Tobacco tax increases have failed in previous state elections. This twist this year was that tobacco companies got behind each campaign. R.J. Reynolds supported a proposal to raise the tax 60 cents a pack on all bands plus an additional 67 packs on discount brands (Cherokee, Decade). The discount brands and convenience-store owners supported a straight 23-cent tax increase. Disease charities and groups that promote scientific research in Missouri opposed both proposals.
The constitutional amendment to limit campaign contributions in Missouri — one issue the swamp drainers and college professors could agree upon — passed. A constitutional amendment to require government-issued ID at the polls also passed, because making it harder to vote is something we do now.
In Kansas City, voters rejected Clay Chastain’s latest rail fantasy. Maybe now he’ll finally retire his clipboard and find another way to sort through his daddy issues.
A bit of cheer for people did not go to the polls with a pitchfork in their hands: A levy increase sought by the Mid-Continent Public Library passed.
In Kansas, the state Supreme Court survived a challenge to its independence. The four judges on the ballot targeted by the NRA, Kansans for Life and the groups received enough “retain” votes to stay on the bench and provide a moderating influence.
