politics

In this episode of ‘SEMO Spotlight’, we speak with Dr. Laura Hatcher, who is the director of the new Center for Civic Engagement and Democratic Practices and former department head of the Department of Anthropology, History, & Political Science.

In this episode of ‘SEMO Spotlight’, we speak with Dr. Laura Hatcher, who is the director of the new Center for Civic Engagement and Democratic Practices and former department head of the Department of Anthropology, History, & Political Science.

The Missouri Primary is almost here, and two potential amendments will have major impacts on voting and taxes for Missouri residents.

Organizers behind the New Illinois movement say they are building long-term support for creating a separate state despite criticism. They argue rural and suburban communities lack fair representation in Illinois and often get overshadowed by Chicago politics.

From Missouri's first suffrage group to today's activists and candidates, Southeast Missouri women across parties are shaping politics while confronting underrepresentation and challenges.

The head of the state clerks' association says local election officials still lack access to the voter database needed to finalize new district assignments.

A new poll from the Missouri Foundation for Health shows strong support among Missouri residents for access to birth control, finding many have concerns about future barriers to care. Advocates say the study underscores the need for lawmakers to expand access to birth control across the state.

Iran conflict fuels gas price spike, forcing SEMO students to work more, carpool and use shuttles as rising fuel and transport costs squeeze student budgets.

New U.S. Postal Service postmark rules could delay mail-in ballots for Illinois and other Midwest residents by dating them days after submission, a change that advocates warn will disproportionately impact rural voters and lead to more ballots being rejected. Critics argue the policy could further disenfranchise voters.

Missouri’s minimum wage increase is now in effect as 2026 begins, a voter-approved change supporters say reflects rising living costs and workers' needs statewide. Workforce leaders say the change reflects rising living costs and could help retain workers, reduce reliance on public assistance, and strengthen the state’s labor force.