Missouri Governor Accuses Secretary of State of Political Retribution Over THC Ban

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Missouri Governor Mike Parson has publicly accused Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft of obstructing an emergency executive order aimed at banning unregulated THC products, claiming Ashcroft's actions stem from personal grievances after losing the recent gubernatorial primary. Parson's order, issued in August, was intended to address concerns over the safety of THC products, which he argued have posed risks to children mistaking them for candy. Ashcroft, however, did not endorse the emergency rule, citing legal concerns regarding its compliance with state statutes. His spokesperson, JoDonn Chaney, emphasized that the decision was based on a careful review of the legal requirements rather than any political motivations. Parson, in a letter to Ashcroft, expressed frustration, suggesting that the denial of the rule was a retaliatory act for his endorsement of Ashcroft's rival in the GOP primary. The political landscape in Missouri is particularly charged, as Parson is term-limited and unable to seek reelection, leading to a competitive environment among Republican candidates vying for his position. Ashcroft, who has aspirations to follow in the political footsteps of his father, former Governor John Ashcroft, faced significant competition in the primary. In response to the impasse, Parson has directed the Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control to resubmit the emergency rule, urging Ashcroft to reconsider his stance. Without Ashcroft's approval, the process to implement the ban could extend for several months, leaving the issue of unregulated THC products unresolved.