November 9, 2024

Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. has issued the following statement regarding local, state and national results of the 2024 November general election:

“Yesterday, voters across Missouri and throughout the country went to the polls, casting votes in an election that has left many of us with mixed emotions—some hopeful, others deeply concerned. For many, this election didn’t bring the results we’d hoped for and that’s not easy to reconcile. It’s natural to feel uncertainty, frustration, even worry about the future. But today, I want to remind you that even in challenging times, our collective voice and commitment to a better future remain our greatest strength.

“Here in Jackson County, I am profoundly grateful to every voter who stood up to make their voice heard. Despite the relentless ads and negative rhetoric that have sadly become routine, you showed up, and for that, I thank you. Your engagement is what fuels our democracy, and it reminds us all of the power we have when we work together for the good of our community.

“I am especially grateful for the strong support you showed for the Senior Services Levy, which will allow us to expand essential programs like Meals on Wheels, provide sustainable support for home safety repairs like wheelchair ramps and increase access to reliable transportation. These resources will allow our seniors to live healthier, happier lives in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by the people and memories they cherish. Over my tenure, eight countywide proposals have come before you, and every single one I’ve endorsed has passed; every proposal I’ve opposed has been turned down. This ongoing trust in our shared vision for Jackson County is humbling, and it strengthens my commitment to build a community that truly cares for all its residents.

“I want to congratulate everyone who earned the voters’ trust last night, including our Governor-elect, Mike Kehoe. Although we come from different political backgrounds, I look forward to working with him, just as I have with Governor Mike Parson, because Missouri’s future depends on leaders who can find common ground and work together to make this state a better place for all.

“I am especially proud of Melesa Johnson, our new Prosecuting Attorney. From the moment I met Melesa, I saw in her the integrity, strength, and compassion Jackson County deserves. Her campaign inspired hope and unity, and I am confident she will lead with those same values. A decade ago, Jackson County had never elected a black person for countywide office. Today, with Melesa as Prosecuting Attorney, Darryl Forté as our Sheriff, and myself as County Executive, every top countywide office is held by African Americans. This progress is a testament to what we can achieve when we stand together for justice and equity.

“I also want to commend the voters who supported Amendment 3 on the statewide ballot. With this measure, Missourians have taken an important step toward restoring the right of women to make decisions about their own health. Even in the face of setbacks, we see that the will of the people can and will rise up in support of fundamental rights.

“As we take in the results of this election, I encourage everyone to turn toward each other. Step back from the noise and spend time with the people who mean the most to you. Put down your phones, turn off the TV, and reconnect with our community. Enjoy a walk in one of our beautiful parks or volunteer with a local organization that’s making a difference. Let’s turn away from the politics of division and fear and turn toward unity, compassion, and resilience. Because it’s in each other that we find our greatest strength, our hope, and our peace.

“Jackson County has faced difficult times before, and each time, we have risen together. Today, let us rise again, guided by the hope and determination of what we can accomplish. Let’s go forward—united, hopeful, and ready to build a Jackson County, a Missouri, and a nation that values every voice, lifts up those in need, and creates a future worthy of the generations to come.”