HAMILTON, Mo. – State Representative Mazzie Boyd, representing District 02 and northwest Missouri and the Missouri House of Representatives, has issued the following statement in response to the allegations against House Speaker Dean Plocher:
“Over the last several weeks we have heard multiple accusations against Speaker Plocher and his alleged unethical behavior that is deeply concerning. From his business dealings with Fireside and an $800,000 contract for software that is unnecessary, to allegedly threatening staff employment who challenge his double-dealing, to this latest accusation of receiving thousands of dollars in reimbursement personally when his campaign pad for lavish trips, the allegations keep coming.
While these are merely accusations, there seems to be a pattern developing. As a conservative member of the Missouri House, I have lost confidence that Speaker Plocher can lead effectively. I believe he needs to devote his time to clearing his name and serving his district, and he cannot do all that while remaining Speaker of the House. That is why I am calling on him to resign as Speaker.
I would also urge the Missouri House Ethics Committee to do a full investigation of the numerous accusations of misconduct. The people of Missouri deserve to know the full extent and veracity of these allegations against Plocher.
Once the Ethics Committee has finished their investigation, the House can determine whether further action should be taken. Until that process is complete, I believe we need a new leader with integrity, to help House Republicans move this state forward.
The Legislature cannot be bogged down by this distraction, we have work that needs to be done for Missourians. Our state can’t wait till 2025.”