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Missouri candidate charged with trying to plant cocaine on opponent
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- Thomas Ross, a Missouri House candidate, appeared in court on federal charges accusing him of attempting to plant cocaine and Adderall on his Republican primary opponent, Louise Secker.
- Ross is charged with conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance after allegedly instructing a campaign manager to place drugs in Secker's belongings before the August 4 primary, which Ross narrowly won.
- Evidence includes testimony from a former campaign manager who said Ross provided the drugs and directed the plan, with law enforcement confirming the substances as cocaine and Adderall.
- Missouri Republican Party chairman Peter Kinder urged Ross to withdraw from the race, calling the allegations "serious and deeply troubling."
- U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price emphasized the importance of integrity and honesty in elections, stating that voters deserve confidence in the electoral process.
