In the wake of Rasheen Aldridge Jr.’s election as 14th Ward Alderman and resignation from the Missouri House, a political whirlwind has swept through the 78th District. The past year has been punctuated by calls from Senators, Representatives, and the NAACP calling on Governor Parson to initiate a special election to fill the vacancy. Among the contenders vying for successor Committeeman Marty Joe Murray has secured several key endorsements. Murray has been able to secure the endorsement of Alderman Rasheen Aldridge. Alderman Aldridge understands the need for a successor capable of fully embracing the responsibilities incumbent upon the 78th District representative.

Several Officials Come Out in Support of Murray

Marty Joe was the only State House candidate endorsed by Mayor Tishaura Jones. Several members of board of Alderman have rallied behind Murray. President Megan Green highlighted that Marty has been a long time advocate for protecting and expanding access to reproductive health. President Green stated, “With IVF now under attack, we need his knowledge and experience in Jefferson City to defend the ability of people to choose if, how, and when they want to grow a family.” Alderwoman Laura Keys has expressed, “Marty is the type of leader our city has been thirsting for! I am so excited to support this dynamic, intelligent and business minded professional!” Alderwoman Daniela Velasquez stated, “In the past 8 years that I have known Marty Joe, he has proven to be a capable and effective leader. Marty Joe will be the champion we need to protect the City of St. Louis. Marty has an ability to bring people together with different backgrounds. That will serve him well as he works on behalf of our diverse city.”

Murray has spent several years establishing relationships in Jefferson City while advocating on behalf of legislation that effected the 78th District. Long time legislator Senator Nasheed, proclaimed that she is thrilled to announce her enthusiastic support for Marty as our candidate for the 78th District. Senator Nasheed exclaimed, “It’s time for a dedicated and passionate leader to champion the issues that matter most to our district. Marty’s commitment to our community and his impressive qualifications make him the ideal candidate to represent us in the MO State Legislature.” Current State Representative LakeySha Bosley understands what it takes to serve in Jefferson city. When asked about the potential of working along side Murray she stated, “Marty is dedicated to the people of St. Louis City. He has shown that through his tireless hard work when he served as committeeman in the City. I’m supporting Marty because he is a man of great integrity and truly a man for the people. With so many attacks against St. Louis in the state legislature, we need someone who is willing to fight, advocate, and bring back resources for St. Louis; and that person is Marty Joe Murray.” Additionally, he has been endorsed by former State Representative, and Recorder of Deeds Michael Butler. Recorder Butler stated, “I have been working together with Marty Joe for years and I’m excited to see him take his work ethic to Jefferson City. I have seen him mentor youth, navigate trying times with the City Central Committee and advocate for the City of St. Louis with the Missouri Democratic Party.”

Murray is prepared to lead the 78th District

Murray believes everything he has done politically and professionally has prepared him to be an effective legislator in the state House. His journey of organizing in the capitol on issues like raising the minimum wage, expansion of Medicaid, and government accountability will aid him if elected in the 78th District. Having formerly been elected as Committeeman on the 7th Ward; it has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of governance at the city, state, and federal level. Murray’s vision for the 78th District hinges on accountability, transparency, and unwavering dedication to the constituents he seeks to represent.

As the campaign unfolds, Murray’s message is focused on protecting civil rights and stopping Jefferson City’s overreach on St. Louis. There is an unrelenting attempt to remove St. Louis’ ability to govern its self. Currently the focus is removing local control of the police department and diminishing St. Louis voting power through the initiative petition process. This is particularly important to a broad spectrum of voters within the 78th District.

His emphasis on community empowerment and proactive engagement strikes a chord in a district yearning for steadfast leadership. While endorsements undoubtedly carry weight in political contests, Murray’s grassroots support base, fortified by years of tireless advocacy, underscores the depth of his connection with the electorate.

Murray stated he believes, “the overwhelming support from the Board of Aldermen and members of the House of Representatives is because I have a track record of results in the district. When I say I am for education it’s not just a slogan. I have personally opened a computer lab and given nearly 1,000+ book bags with school supplies to students in the district. No other candidate on the ballot was next to me calling on the Governor to return local control back to the elected school board. When it came to police brutality, raising the minimum wage, reproductive rights, or picketing beside union members I was the only candidate from the 78th on the front lines. Beyond the community activism I have attended hundreds of neighborhood meetings which have informed my perspective on every corner, block, and alley in the 78th. I am running for State Representative of the 78th because I am the 78th.”

The 78th House District includes the following neighborhoods: Old North, St. Louis Place, Carr Square, Columbus Square, Downtown, Downtown West, Lafayette Square, Lasalle Park, McKinley Heights, Fox Park, Compton Heights, Tower Grove East, Benton Park West, Gravois Park, and Dutchtown. The primary election will take place on August 6th, 2024. He will face primary opponents Jacqueline Cox Antwi and Jessica Pachak. 

DELUX Magazine
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