Bob Mahacek, a Republican, and Meredith Sumenek, a Democrat, are vying for the vacant 95th District seat in the Missouri House of Representatives.
Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.
This race has no incumbent. The 95th District seat has sat open since January 2025, when it was vacated by Michael O’Donnell.
Mahacek owns the Baron’s Express trucking company. He is involved in the St. Louis County Police Business Association and St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church, as well as Oakville, Tesson and South County Republican clubs.
When asked why he is seeking office, Mahacek said: “I truly enjoy helping others. I believe my positive outlook, my business experience, problem-solving skills and ability to work with all types of people will bring positive change.”
Sumenek owns Electronics Old and New (EONN) and is the president of the Tesson Ferry Democratic Organization. She holds a bachelor’s degree with honors from Smith College.
When asked why she is seeking office, Sumenek said: “For nearly two years, our district was left without a voice in Jefferson City. In that time, they brought forth Amendments 4 and 5 that would have effectively stripped our initiative petition right as citizens and given the legislature free rein to raise and apply new sales taxes. Despite the overwhelming defeat of these measures, they have pledged to bring them back. My opponent has signed a pledge to bring them back. I am tired of the Missouri legislature ignoring the will of the people and listening more to paid lobbyists and large donors than to the people of Oakville and Mehlville. I’m running to be a voice of reason in the midst of chaos in Jefferson City.”
The candidates gave the following responses to The Call’s candidate questionnaire:
What issue do you consider the single most important issue in this race and why?
Mahacek: “Affordability — we have to be relentless in making improvements in all aspects of government because government is taking way too much of our hard-earned money and not delivering the results we deserve.”
Sumenek: “The number one issue is the cost of living. Right now, the cost of food, fuel, housing and healthcare keeps going up. This makes it hard for working families to pay their bills and plan for the future. Here’s what I plan to do: 1) Pass a law to remove taxes from food, making food cheaper. 2) Teach older adults about existing programs that can help freeze their property taxes. 3) Try to stop big cuts to Medicare and Medicaid, which help many people in Missouri get healthcare. 4) Work with local unions to make sure there are good, well-paying jobs so young people can afford to stay in our communities. 5) Support developing a new state tax law that better reflects current salaries. Right now, even people making just $9,000 a year are in the highest tax group.”
Other issues you perceive in your race and your position on each?
Mahacek: “Public safety — safety is foundational to successful communities. I support law enforcement and holding criminals accountable. Improving education — focus on better educational outcomes for each student. Helping small business — we must streamline government. When bureaucrats come up with expensive, nonsensical regulations, we all pay because it’s passed along to us through higher prices.”
Sumenek: “Healthcare and education are also top concerns of mine. Our South County schools are an important part of our community. Our kids are the future. But right now, our schools don’t have enough money, and they’re struggling to keep up. Our State Board of Education was appointed by the governor and refused to ask the State Legislature to fully fund the school foundation program. Inflation is hurting local school budgets the same way it is hurting our family budgets. Our teachers are among the worst paid in the nation. Over 175 school districts throughout Missouri currently operate four days a week as a cost-cutting measure. I propose that the State Board of Education be elected the same as our local school boards, instead of being appointed by the Governor. I’ll also fight taking money away from public schools to give to for-profit private schools. Likewise, our healthcare system in the United States is not working. No one should have to choose between going to the doctor and buying food for their family. Our community needs a leader who will speak up and work hard to fix these problems. I will fight to protect healthcare for people in Missouri, even when the federal government makes cuts to veterans services, Medicare, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act. I believe everyone should be able to see a doctor, a dentist, or a mental health provider. Skyrocketing electric rates are also a looming issue. In Georgia, the members of their public service commission are elected. In Missouri, the Governor appoints the members of the Public Service Commission that vote on rate increases and oversee utilities. We need greater public input.”
What do you perceive to be your district’s greatest challenges? How will you address these challenges?
Mahacek: “Going door to door, real estate taxes and affordability are huge issues. We must work harder to find fraud, waste and abuse, limit the size of government, and deliver services in a more efficient, effective manner.”
Sumenek: “Besides the major issues of affordability, healthcare, and public education previously cited, I would add protecting our quality of life. Mehlville, Oakville and Sappington are beautiful, safe communities. We must work together with the St. Louis County Council to make sure new developments, including data centers, are moved forward with input from the whole community. Having a proactive state representative to advocate for residents is important at the federal, state and county level.”
What do you perceive to be the state’s greatest challenges over the next decade?
Mahacek: “Affordability, public safety and education must always be top priorities. Growing our state is critical, as well. One challenge that many may not be aware of is electricity; many environmentalists want to close all of Missouri’s coal-fired power plants by 2030. If that happens, we will lose about 1/2 of our reliable electricity generation. We will be looking back at 10% increases as the good old days as we move toward disastrous California-style energy pricing.”
Sumenek: “The state is facing a large deficit. A billion of that is the result of underestimating the devastating income loss from being the only state in the nation to eliminate the capital gains tax. For years the mantra has been, “If we cut taxes for corporations and billionaires, our state’s economy will grow.” It hasn’t. We need to refocus on helping startup companies and local businesses to be more successful. Additionally, investing in education for the workforce of tomorrow would improve the quality of life that makes Missouri a place businesses want to be.”
What is your opinion on Missouri Amendment 3?
Mahacek: “Most voters do not want abortion up to the moment of birth, nor do they want sex change procedures being done to minors. They also want exceptions for rape, incest, and the health of the mother. This Amendment 3 takes care of all these issues. Because of this, I support Amendment 3.”
Sumenek: “The intent is to once again try to overturn the will of the voters who made reproductive rights legal by amendment just two years ago. It is a blatant attempt to once more ban abortion services, resulting in a two-tiered healthcare system which hurts girls and women. Proponents of Amendment 3 focus on the already illegal and non-existent issue of transgender surgeries on minors. Missouri law is currently explicit in banning such surgeries. It is no more than a distraction. I support a woman’s right to make her own healthcare decisions. Medical decisions should be made by a patient and their doctor.”
What is your opinion on Missouri Amendment 6?
Mahacek: “I’m opposed because so much money has come from out-of-state special interest groups. They will be able to essentially write and pass their own laws in just St. Louis, Kansas City, and Columbia. Like our U.S. Constitution, I believe changing the Missouri Constitution should be somewhat more difficult than passing a law.”
Sumenek: “Amendment 6 needs to be added to the Missouri Constitution to protect the will of the people. Time and again we have used the initiative petition process to pass laws, only to see them overturned when they get to Jefferson City. That is one of the reasons I am running for office. The way the Missouri Legislature ignores the will of the people is undemocratic.”
What is your opinion on Missouri Amendment 7?
Mahacek: “I’m not sure if now is the right time; perhaps it could be revisited in the future.”
Sumenek: “Since Missouri is already in a constitutionally illegal deficit, I do not understand why this is even on the ballot. The most positive estimate I have seen would require more than 130 years for the fund to be of any use to the people of Missouri. Money used for the fund could instead be used for schools, healthcare, and other public services.”
What is your opinion on Missouri Amendment 8?
Mahacek: “This doesn’t seem necessary to me.”
Sumenek: “Amendment 8 would remove local control over the disciplining and firing of county sheriffs. In an era where our state government continues to remove control from the people, actively giving up control seems short-sighted. Communities are most successful when local control stays local and the community can decide who they want in locally elected offices.”
What is your opinion on Missouri Proposition A?
Mahacek: “I am in favor of Proposition A because the districts are more compact and contiguous, and less gerrymandered.”
Sumenek: “I oppose Proposition A.”
What process do you favor for redistricting? What do you think of the state’s current redistricting process?
Mahacek: “I’m in favor of compact and contiguous districts, done every 10 years by the legislature. I wish all the states would follow this. Illinois has long had some of the worst gerrymandered districts of any state, yet many seem fine with that because it benefits their side. I wish all states would adhere to a compact and contiguous standard.”
Sumenek: “In 2025, Missouri lawmakers changed the state’s congressional district maps. Critics said the new maps were designed to give one political party an advantage. People Not Politicians collected enough signatures to put the issue on the ballot. Voters will decide whether to keep the new maps created by the federal government or return to the 2022 maps created by Missouri. We want congressional district maps that: 1) are compact and connected; 2) have nearly equal numbers of people; and 3) are drawn without favoring a political party.”
What will or have you done to work across the aisle in Jefferson City?
Mahacek: “I will look to find common ground whenever and wherever possible for the benefit of all Missourians. I will not, however, support issues like higher taxes, defunding the police, and guys playing girls’ sports, for example, simply for the sake of saying I worked across the aisle.”
Sumenek: “No one party has all of the answers for our community. Our government is designed to have both parties come together to find the best outcome for the largest number of people in our state. It is important that everyone in our government put egos aside and work for the best interests of our communities. In my career, I have had to work with a wide variety of people on hundreds of projects to resolve difficult issues. I intend to bring my experience in negotiating and respecting others views to reach across the aisle.”
What bill would you sponsor as your first legislation post-election?
Mahacek: “Two top priorities: 1.) Because of my trucking background, a highway safety bill that cracks down on unsafe truck drivers. 2) A taxpayer bill of rights (TABOR) that limits the growth of government to population and inflation, similar to Colorado.”
Sumenek: “I would sponsor a bill removing Citizens United from Missouri politics. This bill would be similar to the law in Hawaii that is also the focus of a petition drive in Montana. The bill would prohibit any incorporated entity operating in Missouri from spending money to influence local, state or federal elections. Huge amounts of money currently flow through PACs to buy elections in Missouri. Take a minute to learn where the mailers you receive in your mailbox come from, as it is an eye-opening experience. Prior to the 2010 Citizens United decision by the Supreme Court, corporate money was prohibited. After the passing of Citizens United, the power of “we the people” has disappeared. Too many politicians take money from large companies, resulting in those companies dictating new laws to our politicians. Unlike my opponent, I’m running a grassroots campaign funded by people in our community. I will not be controlled by corporate money.”
If elected, how would you work to make yourself accessible to your constituents?
Mahacek: “Taking part in various events around the district as well as getting back in touch with constituents when they reach out.”
Sumenek: “That’s easy, because I have already made myself accessible as a candidate. I have knocked on over 7,500 doors and have held two town hall meetings. I will hold regular listening sessions/town halls while in office, encourage people to email or call, and distribute surveys. To be a good representative of the people, you have to be a great listener. And I want the people of the district to help educate me on issues and what the community wants.”
How will you advocate for the needs of your district in the legislature?
Mahacek: “By treating others like I want to be treated, conducting myself with honor and integrity, and saying what I mean and meaning what I say. If others can’t trust you, it will be almost impossible to get anything done.”
Sumenek: “If the needs are legislative in nature, then I would work through the committee system and find like-minded individuals to co-sponsor. If the constituent problems are with state agencies, then I would maintain lines of communication across those departments to resolve issues quickly. My past professional experience has been in working across departments/organizations to resolve complex, impactful issues. I intend to use that experience to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.”
What is your opinion on Flock Safety and other automated license plate reader (ALPR) Systems?
Mahacek: “I believe they’re important for reducing crime, yet we need rock-solid guarantees that they will not be abused. The data should be handled on a need-to-know basis, and only kept for a short period of time unless needed in an actual case.”
Sumenek: “One of the rights I hold most dear is the right to privacy. Unfortunately, because of how many of these systems have been implemented and the lack of security around their use, these systems are easily abused. Some officers have used the systems to track ex-wives, girlfriends or female strangers that they are interested in. One Flock camera was placed to watch people using a public swimming pool. That’s terrifying. A nationwide surveillance system that tracks our every move infringes on our right to privacy. Limited use in certain high crime areas, with strict, local control of the data generated by the system, may be helpful. But watching every citizen’s every move is ripe for abuse.”
What are your thoughts on data centers? Do you support a statewide construction moratorium, permanently or temporarily, on large data centers?
Mahacek: “I share the concerns of many Missourians. If we are going to have them, first, they should benefit the residents by lowering their property taxes or reducing electric bills, for instance, not become a slush fund for bureaucrats. The data centers should use a closed-loop system to conserve water and larger ones should be required to generate their own power. That would actually help strengthen our grid, which we desperately need. They should not be given tax breaks, and we must ensure they pay so residents aren’t the ones paying higher utility bills. They don’t seem well suited for our area, yet my work takes me through acres and acres of abandoned industrial areas in the City, where they may be a positive for areas no one else would go. No moratorium, just build in areas where it makes sense.”
Sumenek: “I would oppose hyperscale data centers being built in our community without significant local input and tight contracts to limit local impact. I have outlined a Data Center Bill of Rights on my website that is intended to help our community protect our way of life and property values from data centers. The noise pollution makes them unacceptable in peaceful residential areas. In many areas, they have been a major contributor to skyrocketing electric rates, which not only hits homeowners but businesses and industries. I am also concerned about giving state tax breaks and incentives where there may be little return to the state long term. My Data Center Bill of Rights would protect communities from adverse outcomes and secret deals. Learn more on my website: sumenekformo.com”
Do you have an opinion on Missouri’s new requirements for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits?
Mahacek: “We must make sure that those who are in need receive the benefits while cutting back on well-known fraud. While most people want to help those who need it, they aren’t on board with having money stolen by fraudsters. Basic verifications are a great first step that will strengthen the program for those who truly need it, while protecting Missourians’ hard-earned tax dollars.”
Sumenek: “While it is vital to limit fraud in all programs, I’m not sure that the newly requested documents are the best choice to achieve their purpose. Most SNAP fraud comes from underreported income, but these documents do not address this issue. Many people on SNAP benefits do not have bank accounts, may have intermittent housing and could be unable to pay for childcare. I would like to see proof that the cost of processing these new requirements (which are required to be provided to the state twice a year) is less than the overall fraudulent payments. And that it does not delay vital assistance to needy children and families.”
Do you have an opinion on Missouri’s new law banning intoxicating hemp products?
Mahacek: “I’m fine with the law and products being moved to marijuana dispensaries.”
Sumenek: “I believe the new law addresses a loophole in the existing laws. To protect young people, intoxicating hemp products should be limited in their availability to licensed dispensaries. This has the additional benefit of helping the existing independent small business build their business.”
What are your thoughts on MOScholars, Missouri’s private school voucher program?
Mahacek: “I support MOScholars. My work with former inmates and gang members shows me first-hand the critical importance of education. A poor education is often a direct pipeline to prison. In almost any sector, monopolies are rarely as innovative or responsive as competitive environments. When funding follows the child, competition elevates all schools. Parents and students will be treated more like customers, ensuring children can go to the school that is the best fit for them. It can’t just be about funding; Chicago Public Schools spend $30,000 a year per student and many kids graduate unable to read or write at grade level, but the cry is still for more funding. MOScholars is currently the best chance for at-risk children in Missouri. Our education system must be about the children, first and foremost.”
Sumenek: “I have significant concerns around this program. MOSCholars has suffered from a lack of oversight by the State Treasurer and has been a funnel to move taxpayer money from public schools directly to private schools. At a time when our schools are suffering from an overall lack of funding, we should not focus on “nice to have” programs when our “need to have” programs are suffering. I am certainly open to looking at changes that are fair with input from educational professionals.”
Are changes needed to the state’s foundation formula for funding education?
Mahacek: “Attempts will be made, yet it seems like it will be extremely challenging to get something passed. I do not want to see the Mehlville School District lose any funding and that dynamic will be playing out all across the state.”
Sumenek did not answer.
What will you do to improve Missouri’s economy?
Mahacek: “Again, reduce burdensome, nonsensical regulations. Let business know we want them here, operate with common sense and don’t treat small businesses like a government piggy-bank.”
Sumenek: “The “cut taxes and they will come” strategy has been a dismal failure. We have one of the lowest state tax rates and yet we have a stagnant economy. We must shift the focus to promoting growth of our medical, science, and agri-business sectors. I would build our tourism sector and promote Missouri businesses whose products are “Made in Missouri.” We need to find new ways to help entrepreneurs and business startups.”
What are your thoughts on the state’s immunization laws?
Mahacek: “As of now, not aware of anything that needs to be changed.”
Sumenek: “Fortunately, Missouri has maintained childhood immunization requirements for those attending school. Measles outbreaks in other states demonstrate the need for immunization to protect everyone’s children.”
What changes, if any, should Missouri make to its health-care system?
Mahacek: “I will also look to see if there would be some free market solutions that would improve outcomes and bring costs down. Challenging, of course but always the goal.”
Sumenek: “Our health care system in the United States is not working. In the wealthiest country in the world, we pay top dollar prices for poor or inadequate care. Our community needs a leader who will speak up and work hard to fix these problems. Here is what I plan to do: fight to protect healthcare for people in Missouri, even when the federal government makes cuts to Veterans Services, Medicare, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act; support universal healthcare for all (because I believe everyone should be able to see a doctor, a dentist, or a mental health provider); and, focus on helping people stay healthy before they get really sick, which saves money and helps people live better lives.”
Would you support legislation to facilitate a merger of St. Louis County and St. Louis city?
Mahacek: “No, definitely not as a straight merger. Perhaps the City could come in as a municipality, and some savings could be realized that way. It seems as though both City and the County have real spending issues and I don’t believe South County residents want to subsidize that.”
Sumenek: “No. It is not for the Missouri Legislature to impose their will on our community. Only St. Louis County and St. Louis City voters should make such an important decision for our future.”
What do you think of the leadership of Gov. Mike Kehoe?
Mahacek: “I support his views on smaller government, cutting needless regulations to help small business and backing first responders.”
Sumenek: “Kehoe’s 39% approval rating in a recent statewide poll by SLU/Gov tells the story. Our budget deficit happened under his watch due to policies he pushed. Kehoe’s major initiatives, Amendments 4 and 5, were defeated at the polls by 80% in every county of the state. Then, continuing his rampage, he advocated against the will of the people by attempting to remove both Missouri Proposition A and Amendment 6 from the November ballot.”
What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?
Mahacek: “Ultimately, to me it boils down to making people’s lives better. A big part of that is spending their tax dollars just like I spend my own money, very wisely. In the future, I want Missourians to keep more of their hard-earned money.”
Sumenek: “First and foremost, to listen to their constituents. Second, to vote in the best interests of the people and their district. Third, to do their homework to read and fully understand what they are voting on. Fourth, to keep the people and the press informed of what goes on in Jefferson City.”
Have you been endorsed by any groups/organizations?
Mahacek: “St. Louis County Police, Missouri Chamber of Commerce, Missouri Right To Life, The NRA.”
Sumenek: “As of this writing, I have been endorsed by: The American People’s Compact, National Women’s Political Caucus – STL, Missouri NOW, Sierra Club, Missouri AFL-CIO, UAW, Teamsters, Planned Parenthood Great Rivers Action, AccessMO, Tesson Ferry Democratic Organization, Gravois Democrats and Progressive Democrats of Lemay.”
Editor’s note: The following questions are as they were submitted to The Call by the candidates in their entirety. They have not been edited in any way, other than to ensure appropriate language and no direct attacks on opponents or other candidates.
