Missouri governor on people attending events: We forget they're at risk, too

(The Center Square) – After signing dozens of books at a children’s education venue in Chesterfield, Missouri Republican Gov. Mike Parson acknowledged increased security after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

“Since I’ve been governor, there have been numerous threats, some real and some not real,” Parson told reporters on Thursday. “But they’re out there. So you have to deal with that and you’ve got to make sure that you do everything you can to stay safe. And I just want to make sure that nobody gets hurt for a cause or when they’re at my event.”

The governor’s security is provided through the Missouri State Highway Patrol and had additional personnel at the event. Photo identification was requested by the personnel at the venue, Junior Achievement of Greater St. Louis. Photo identification wasn’t requested at other venues where Parson made public appearances during the past three years, with the exception of state office building in downtown St. Louis.

Parson said his staff and security had separate meetings after Saturday’s incident in Butler, Pa.

“The reality of it is when you’re out there, there’s always that risk and you have to understand that,” said Parson, a former sheriff of Polk County. “But here’s what I will tell you: I think the most important thing that happened Saturday… you have to realize that people like myself as governor or the president, we always want people to come to those events and sometimes I think we forget that they’re at risk, too.”

First Lady Teresa Parson joined the governor as he signed his book, “No Turnin’ Back.” Dozens who purchased the book spent time talking with the Parsons and taking photographs in the suburb of St. Louis.

Parson emphasized how authorities need to improve security and he is increasing his awareness when in public.

“Look, these things happen and people get ideas in their heads sometimes that are not good,” Parson said. “So, we’re definitely going to be paying a little more attention to details. I will, in where I go and how I conduct myself. And so will the governor’s security detail.”

Parson also announced endorsements of Republicans for three statewide offices: Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe for Governor, Andrew Bailey for Attorney General and Vivek Malek for Treasurer. Bailey and Malek were appointed by Parson when the office holders were elected to other offices. The primary will be held Aug. 6.

“We've been through some of the most difficult trials in our state’s history and they've all been there by my side,” Parson said. “It would be very difficult, when I appointed them for those positions, not to say I would support them today. They’ve all done a great job. I think we're heading in the right direction in Missouri.”