In the ongoing dispute over the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney seat, Missouri Governor Mike Parson has named Melissa Price Smith as his choice to replace Wesley Bell, who was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and will begin his term in January 2025. Smith, a seasoned member of the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney's Office since 2008, currently oversees the Sexual Assault and Child Abuse team.
"For the success of our state, and the safety of our people, we need an experienced St. Louis County Prosecutor who demands and upholds law and order," Parson stated, according to KSDK. In response, Smith expressed her gratitude for the appointment, "I am honored to accept the appointment as St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney," Smith said in a release obtained by KMOX.
The legal battle over who has the authority to appoint the prosecuting attorney continues, despite Parson's announcement. St. Louis County Executive Sam Page previously named Cort VanOstran, a Democrat and former federal prosecutor, to the position, sparking a lawsuit from Parson and Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. They argue that the Missouri constitution gives Parson the appointing power. This case is set to be heard in court on December 18, as reported by St. Louis Public Radio.
Amidst the contention, Bell's term comes to a close, and the seat needs filling. In fact, VanOstran emphasized the urgency of the situation during 'The Chris and Amy Show,' "We got to be responsible when it comes to public safety," he noted, as KMOX reported. VanOstran also mentioned that discussions with County Council members are ongoing, though consensus can be elusive, "I believe I have good support on a number of members of the county council, as well as the incoming county council," he said.
If Governor Parson's pick does not stand and County Executive Sam Page gains the power to make the appointment, VanOstran’s selection would require confirmation by the St. Louis County Council. The dispute has garnered significant attention not only because of the legal standoff but also because VanOstran, if appointed, would become one of the highest-profile openly gay prosecutors in the United States. Meanwhile, outgoing Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell, focused on maintaining departmental continuity, has expressed a preference for his successor to come from his current leadership team—a choice that aligns more closely with Parson’s selection of Melissa Price Smith.
