Vote NO on 4 & 5 in August!

The Jackson County Democrats are urging voters to vote NO and reject Amendments 4 and 5, two proposals that would have far-reaching consequences for Missouri families and our democracy. Together, these measures would make it harder for citizens to shape public policy while potentially increasing the financial burden on working families, seniors, and small businesses. Missourians deserve a government that protects their voice and supports economic opportunity.

Amendment 4 is a threat to democracy. It reduces the power of every Missouri voter and destroys our initiative petition process. Instead of a simple majority, it would require a majority in every Congressional district to approve initiative petitions. Under Amendment 4, initiatives could pass with 95% support statewide, but fail if any one district vote falls under 50%. This makes Missourian’s votes unequal, regardless of political party. As Representative Kemp Strickler made clear, “Voters should not willingly give away their own rights!”

Amendment 5, Governor Kehoe and Speaker Jon Patterson’s “Everything Tax”, removes the state income tax and replaces it with sky high sales taxes and gives the state the ability to tax new services like doctor visits, childcare, home sales, and more. With no plan, and no guardrails, the tax could be on food, medication, gasoline, or any goods and services Missourians depend on. Representative Melissa Douglas said it best, “Eliminating state income tax will kill small business, hurt our seniors, and destroy our working class.”

We also recognize and thank the many Republicans and traditionally non-partisan groups who have come out against Amendments 4 and 5, showing the importance of breaking party lines for the good of all Missourians. As Representative Strickler put it, "Amendments 4 and 5 are bad for all Missourians, regardless of political party”.

The Jackson County Democrats also endorsed a YES vote on Amendment 1 and Amendment 2, for the August ballot, and a NO vote on Amendment 3, for the November ballot.