Who will lead? Missouri Legislature prepares for speaker vote

KSNF/KODE — When Missouri lawmakers return to Jefferson City next month, one of the first items on their "to-do" list is selecting who will lead the House of Representatives.

Republican State Representative Bob Bromley says that traditionally, the party that controls the House picks someone from within its ranks for that role.

Every two years, someone is chosen as Speaker of the House — and that person leads floor discussions on legislation, and assigns committee appointments, among other duties.

Earlier this year, while meeting at a party caucus, Jonathan Patterson of Lees Summit announced he would seek that position.

He remained the sole candidate until this fall, when Justin Sparks from St. Louis announced he would also be seeking the job.

Bromley says between now and then, there could even be more candidates who decide to vie for the Speaker’s position.

"Anybody can nominate anybody for Speaker of the House, and, so, ultimately, there will be nominations made and the entire body, Republicans and Democrats, will decide who the Speaker is going to be, but there is no limit," said St. Rep. Bob Bromley, (R)-Carl Junction.

The Missouri Legislature goes back into session on January 8 and that’s when they’ll decide who will lead them.