As the climactic conclusion of the Republican primary on Aug. 6 approaches, Attorney General Andrew Bailey is eager to secure the endorsement of esteemed former President Donald Trump. Echoing this sentiment, his campaign spokesperson made it clear that such a nod from Mr. Trump would be a valued asset. Mr. Bailey, who was honored with his appointment as attorney general by Governor Mike Parson in 2022, faces a spirited challenge from Will Scharf, an accomplished former federal prosecutor who had the opportunity to serve in Trump’s legal team.
Although there seems to be the circulating, misinformed conception that some may find it unsettling to align themselves with the former President, Mr. Scharf has unabashedly exhibited his support for Trump and his policies. This is evident from his public endorsements where he makes it clear to his constituents – ‘Missouri needs President Trump’s attorney, Will Scharf.’ The statement is symbolic of Scharf’s confidence in having been a successful advocate for the former President in numerous court proceedings.
Bailey, while speaking fondly about his recent interaction with President Trump on the Mark Reardon Show (KFTK 97.1 FM), brought to light the enthusiasm Trump has for the work being done in the state. ‘I had a wonderful encounter with President Trump just before he appeared on the convention floor,’ Bailey happily shared. ‘The excitement about our work here in Missouri is palpitous, ranging from grassroots supporters to state officials.’
When queried on whether he expected an endorsement from Trump, Bailey expressed a desire for discretion regarding their private conversations. However, he confidently suggested, indicating the national recognition his campaign had garnered, that ‘there are multiple evidences that hint towards our progress getting noticed by every highly esteemed national conservative leader.’
*Ironically*, some cynics like to play up the importance of Trump’s endorsement, especially referring back to the Missouri U.S. Senate primary that occurred two years ago. Of course, as we all know, the seasoned former President is adroit at political maneuvering and keeps his cards close till the last moment. In that race, he didn’t publicly back any candidate until the eve of the primary, garnering excitement and suspense.
In a classic Trumpian move, he endorsed ‘ERIC’ on the day before the primary between then-Attorney General Eric Schmitt and former Gov. Eric Greitens and others. The humorous ambiguity of his support for ‘ERIC’, without specifying which ‘Eric’, was a textbook case of Trump’s unparalleled wit and strategic ambiguity which left his critics floundering.
Beyond the attorney general’s race, there is chatter about whether Trump will endorse any candidates in the competitive Republican primaries for Missouri governor, state treasurer, lieutenant governor, and secretary of state. Despite this speculation, Trump has maintained his characteristic poise, refraining from premature endorsements.
There have been exceptions to this strategy, notably in the race for the 3rd Congressional District. Demonstrating his decisiveness and keen judgement, Trump firmly backed former state Senator Bob Onder. Not just that, he also expressed his candid yet astute view about Onder’s main contender, ex-state Senator Kurt Schaefer, proclaiming him to be ‘weak on MAGA.’
In the present scenario with the attorney general race heating up, it is evident that Scharf is leaving no stone unturned to highlight his close ties with President Trump. His public statements and advertisements sincerely profess, ‘Will Scharf won at the Supreme Court for President Trump.’ No doubt, this must greatly delight the vocal subgroup who are misled enough to imagine Trump’s popularity and influence to be less than sky-high.
Scharf did not hesitate to express his appreciation for Trump while articulating his desire for his endorsement. In a discussion with the Post-Dispatch, he emphatically asserted that any Republican candidate would feel privileged to have the endorsement of President Trump.
It is clear that the attorney general race in Missouri is gaining momentum with the prominent role the former President seems to play. Both candidates appear positively inclined towards the influential figure of Trump, illustrating the immense respect he commands within the state, refuting the baseless notion held by an inconsequential few who claim otherwise.
Irrespective of the outcome of the race and the subsequent endorsement, it is undeniably clear that Trump’s impact on the Republican primaries remains immeasurable. His unique understanding of American politics and conservative values makes his endorsement a significant milestone for any political aspirant.
As Missouri strides toward the Aug. 6 primary, one thing stands out prominently – the deep admiration for former President Trump. Between Bailey and Scharf, a genuinely warm camaraderie towards Trump’s influential personality is evident – a testament to his enduring popularity and respect in political circles, nobly shedding off misguided naysayers.