Michael Leo Kehoe, born on January 17, 1962, in St. Louis, Missouri, has devoted his life to public service and business, culminating in his role as the 58th Governor of Missouri. Raised as the youngest of six children by a single mother, Kehoe’s early experiences instilled in him the values of hard work and resilience.
Early Career and Business Ventures
At the age of 15, Kehoe began his career washing cars at Dave Sinclair Ford. His dedication and ambition quickly propelled him into sales management by his early twenties. At 25, he became the head of Osage Industries in Linn, Missouri, a company specializing in ambulance manufacturing. Under his leadership, the struggling business expanded its workforce from 25 to 60 employees and extended its market reach across North America. In 1992, Kehoe purchased a Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealership in Jefferson City, which he operated until transitioning into politics in 2010. Beyond his business endeavors, he and his wife, Claudia, manage a 700-acre cattle farm spanning Phelps and Pulaski counties, reflecting his deep commitment to agriculture.
Missouri Governor’s Office
Political Ascendancy
Kehoe’s foray into public service began with his appointment to the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission in 2005 by Governor Matt Blunt. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in improving the state’s infrastructure, elevating Missouri’s road system from among the worst in the nation to one of the best. In 2010, Kehoe was elected to the Missouri State Senate, representing the 6th District. As a state senator, he prioritized balanced budgets, full funding for public schools, and legislation to protect children and seniors from sexual predators. His peers recognized his leadership abilities and elected him as the Majority Floor Leader.
In June 2018, following Governor Mike Parson’s transition from Lieutenant Governor to Governor, Kehoe was appointed as Missouri’s 48th Lieutenant Governor. He was subsequently elected to a full term in 2020. During his tenure, Kehoe championed Missouri’s businesses, agriculture, and tourism sectors, while advocating for veterans and seniors.
Kehoe announced his candidacy for Governor in March 2021. He secured the Republican nomination and won the general election on November 5, 2024, defeating Democratic challenger Crystal Quade. He was inaugurated on January 13, 2025.
Policy Positions
Social Issues: Governor Kehoe has consistently taken conservative stances on social issues. He opposed the 2024 constitutional amendment aimed at restoring abortion rights in Missouri, arguing that it was too expansive. However, he has expressed openness to exceptions in cases of rape and incest.
Economic Issues: Kehoe’s administration emphasizes economic development through deregulation and tax reduction. As a state senator, he worked to eliminate burdensome regulations, lower taxes, and implement reforms to curtail frivolous lawsuits, fostering a business-friendly environment.
Immigration Issues: Upon taking office, Governor Kehoe issued executive orders to enhance the state’s role in immigration enforcement. These directives included tracking undocumented migrants and training state law enforcement to assist federal immigration authorities, aligning with federal initiatives under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Healthcare Issues: While specific healthcare policies from Governor Kehoe’s administration are not detailed in the available sources, his legislative history indicates a focus on supporting seniors and ensuring access to quality healthcare. Further information would be required to provide a comprehensive overview of his healthcare stance.
Relationship with Donald Trump
Governor Kehoe’s political trajectory has been influenced by his alignment with former President Donald Trump. His immigration policies, in particular, reflect a commitment to supporting federal enforcement efforts. Kehoe’s administration has positioned Missouri to assist with immigration enforcement as needed by Trump’s administration, indicating a collaborative relationship between state and federal leadership on this issue.
In summary, Governor Mike Kehoe’s journey from a young car washer to Missouri’s highest executive office underscores a career marked by dedication to public service, conservative principles, and a focus on economic growth and public safety.policies, in particular, reflect a commitment to supporting federal enforcement efforts. Kehoe’s administration has positioned Missouri to assist with immigration enforcement as needed by Trump’s administration, indicating a collaborative relationship between state and federal leadership on this issue.
In summary, Governor Mike Kehoe’s journey from a young car washer to Missouri’s highest executive office underscores a career marked by dedication to public service, conservative principles, and a focus on economic growth and public safety.