
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has wasted no time implementing tough-on-crime measures, signaling a shift in state policy that mirrors a nationwide trend.
At a Glance
- Governor Kehoe issued executive orders focusing on crime-fighting strategies immediately after inauguration
- Orders include capturing fugitives, increasing law enforcement pay, and collecting immigration status data on criminal charges
- Both Republican and Democratic state leaders are promoting anti-crime initiatives across the country
- Recent voter-approved measures in several states have led to stricter penalties for various crimes
- Fentanyl trafficking and organized retail theft are key targets of new anti-crime legislation
Kehoe’s Tough Stance on Crime
Missouri’s newly inaugurated Governor Mike Kehoe has hit the ground running with a series of executive orders aimed at combating crime. These orders, which include measures to capture fugitives, increase law enforcement pay, and collect immigration status data on criminal charges, underscore the administration’s commitment to public safety. Kehoe’s approach aligns with a growing national trend of state leaders taking a harder line on crime.
The governor’s focus on crime reflects widespread public concern. Recent voter-approved ballot measures in several states have resulted in stricter penalties for various offenses, indicating a shift in public sentiment towards tougher law enforcement policies.
Mike Kehoe becomes Missouri governor, promising crackdown on crime & bipartisan unity https://t.co/Qj3DkgrDao
— The Kansas City Star (@KCStar) January 13, 2025
A Bipartisan Push for Public Safety
The tough-on-crime approach is not limited to one political party. Both Republicans and Democrats are actively promoting anti-crime initiatives in state capitols across the nation. This bipartisan effort suggests a unified response to perceived threats to public safety, transcending traditional political divides.
“Too many Missourians don’t feel safe, and too many Missourians aren’t safe,” Kehoe said. “When people are afraid for their lives and their family, they cannot be productive, and they will not prosper.”
In some states, anti-crime measures are being linked with efforts to address illegal immigration, reflecting a complex approach to public safety that considers multiple factors contributing to crime rates.
Fentanyl trafficking has become a primary target for many state legislatures due to the high number of overdose deaths associated with the drug. Utah, for instance, is considering harsher penalties for fentanyl traffickers compared to those dealing in other drugs.
“I believe fentanyl to be almost terroristic in nature because of the amount of people it can kill,” Utah state Rep. Matthew Gwynn said.
Other areas of focus include stricter sentences for sexual offenses involving children, violent crimes, and organized retail theft. Maryland is considering legislation to charge all individuals involved in group theft as felons if the total value exceeds $1,500, addressing the growing concern over coordinated shoplifting incidents.
While crime rates rose during the pandemic, recent trends show a downward trajectory in many areas. However, high-profile crimes continue to influence public perception of safety. Many voters express ongoing concern about crime in their communities, driving support for tougher law enforcement measures.
Some states, including California, Colorado, and Arizona, have passed measures increasing penalties for certain crimes. Others, like Oregon and Louisiana, have reversed previous relaxations of sentencing laws, indicating a broader shift towards stricter criminal justice policies.
Isn’t it nice to see politicians doing something about crime for once?