Clay County GOP Rep Doug Richey Issues Statement of Support for Convicted Rapist Rod Jetton

Doug Richey

In a surprising move that has ignited a firestorm of criticism, Excelsior Springs State Representative Doug Richey and State Senate District 21 Candidate has publicly expressed his support for disgraced former House Speaker Rod Jetton. The controversy stems from Speaker Dean Plocher's decision to appoint Jetton as his top legislative aide, prompting mixed reactions within the Missouri political landscape.

Doug Richey, in an X Post, expressed his desire for Jetton's success, emphasizing the former speaker's journey of redemption. Richey acknowledged a heartfelt and candid conversation with Jetton, stating, "I desire the success of former Speaker Jetton, as he serves Speaker Plocher. Rod knows both my perspective and my commitment to pray for him and his family. His is a tremendous story of redemption. Tough times require tough, and humble, people. Rod is that person. I know that many within the media, as well as democrat strategists, will not give Rod a fair shake, post redemption. None of us know what the future holds, but I can say this, Rod has my respect for stepping into the arena"

Rod Jetton

However, not everyone shares Richey's perspective. Critics argue that Jetton's troubled past, including a misdemeanor conviction for sexual battery, raises serious questions about his fitness in serving the Speaker.

The controversy deepened as dissenting voices questioned the moral implications of supporting Jetton, especially considering the severity of the allegations against him. One commentator posed a hypothetical scenario, asking, "So if it was your daughter that he drugged, choked, and punched, you would be ok with him as long as he said 'Jesus' afterwards?"

This criticism reflects a broader sentiment among some constituents who find it difficult to reconcile the support for Jetton given the seriousness of the accusations against him. The commentator went on to accuse the Missouri GOP of being a "clown car of corruption," highlighting concerns about accountability within the party.

The announcement of Jetton's appointment by Speaker Plocher has also sparked a partisan divide, with Majority Floor Leader Jonathan Patterson defending the decision, stating, "Rod Jetton was a great former speaker, he made a series of very bad mistakes, and he took action to correct them." On the other hand, Democratic Floor Leader Crystal Quade strongly opposed Jetton's appointment, describing it as a "gross affront to domestic violence survivors."

The controversy surrounding Jetton's appointment highlights a cultural divide within Missouri's political landscape, with some viewing it as a demonstration of resilience and redemption, while others perceive it as a failure of judgment and leadership. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the reputation of those involved and the broader dynamics of Missouri politics.

The controversy surrounding the appointment of disgraced former House Speaker Rod Jetton has taken an unexpected turn as Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher finds himself embroiled in a corruption scandal. The accusations of misappropriation of funds add a layer of complexity to an already contentious situation. Plocher, who recently announced Jetton as his top legislative aide, now faces scrutiny over alleged financial misconduct. The timing of these corruption allegations coincides with the public outcry against Jetton's appointment, further fueling discontent within the Missouri political landscape.

Dean Plocher

The misappropriation of funds accusations against Plocher have not been detailed extensively, but they threaten to overshadow the already divisive debate surrounding Jetton. Critics argue that the decision to appoint Jetton, who has a history of legal troubles, coupled with corruption allegations against Plocher, raises serious concerns about the ethical standards within Missouri's GOP.

The controversy has prompted renewed calls for accountability and transparency within the party, with some questioning the judgment of party leaders. Observers note the potential impact of these developments on the upcoming State Senate District 21 race, where Doug Richey is a candidate, and on the broader public perception of the Missouri GOP. Granted Richey is probably a shoo-in the very Republican 21st District. But this lil pontificating rock has to wonder at Richey's open support of a convicted rapist.