U.S. Elections 2024 Results: Republican Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe defeats Democratic challenger to win Missouri governorship

Republican Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe wins Missouri Governor's race, defeating Democrat Crystal Quade to maintain GOP control.

Republican Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe won the Missouri Governor’s race Tuesday (November 5, 2024), defeating Democratic challenger Crystal Quade to maintain the GOP’s grip on the State’s government.

Mr. Kehoe will succeed GOP Gov. Mike Parson, who chose him to be his second-in-command in 2018. Mr. Parson was barred by term limits from seeking reelection.

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Mr. Kehoe thanked Mr. Parson and Missouri first lady Teresa Parson, who both attended his Jefferson City watch party Tuesday, before giving an at-times emotional acceptance speech.

“To all Missourians, this is your victory,” Mr. Kehoe said in prepared remarks provided to reporters. "Enjoy tonight because tomorrow morning, we get to work together for an even safer, stronger, and more prosperous Missouri.”

Ms. Quade, the outgoing state House Democratic minority leader, did not immediately speak to supporters gathered in her hometown of Springfield following Mr. Kehoe's victory speech.

Mr. Kehoe had been heavily favoured to win. Republicans control Missouri’s state House and state Senate, and no Democrats serve in any statewide office. The last Democrat to serve in statewide office was former Auditor Nicole Galloway, who had been appointed to the position in 2015 and won reelection in 2020. She left office in 2023.