“I’m telling you right now I’m ready to work,” he told his supporters.
Following his expected victory in the race for the 1st Congressional District seat, St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell said he is recommending someone from his leadership team to be named to replace him.
Bell said two individuals, who he did not identify, have expressed interest in the position, but added, “ At the end of the day it’s [St. Louis County Executive] Sam Page’s decision to make and I’ll be here to support that decision in every way I can.”
He plans to build a brighter future for generations to come. Bell intends to pass common sense gun safety laws, and access to quality and affordable health care and climate resilience.
Page confirmed that the application process would begin this week, and applications will be available online.
“There are a whole lot of people in the community that are interested, and a whole lot of people that are advocating for specific characteristics,” said Page.
“ I’m just going to let the process work and let people apply.” said Page.
Bell was declared the winner over Republican challenger Andrew Jones by 8:30 p.m. and the celebration kicked off at Vue 17 in Brentwood.
“We are much more alike than our politics may conceive, people ultimately want the same thing. A chance to work and live healthier and have brighter futures for their children and grandchildren,” said Bell said during his victory speech.
Bell told supporters he would never forget his ‘why.’
““To deliver results for you”, he said.
He plans to expand opportunities for 1st Congressional District residents and “leveling the playing field” by lowering housing costs and making it easier to start a business.
“We have to protect everyone’s rights and freedoms,” he told the crowd.
He plans to build a brighter future for generations to come. Bell intends to pass common sense gun safety laws, and access to quality and affordable health care and climate resilience.
“I’m telling you right now I’m ready to work,” he told his supporters.
Page said Bell represents the needs of the community and believes he will do a good job as the congressman.
Supporter P.K. Key said she likes that he is helping bridge the gap between police and the community. She hopes Bell will protect women’s reproductive rights on the federal level and push for better education policies.
“I want someone there that can work cohesively in government,” said Key.
“When I look across this room and see the diversity, this is what this region is about,” said Bell.
Bell made history in 2018 when he became the first African American to serve as the St. Louis County prosecuting attorney unseating his predecessor, 28-year incumbent Bob McCuloch.
As prosecutor, Bell created a violent crimes unit dedicated to combating violent crime, restructured the county domestic violence team, and created an auto theft task force.
He also expanded diversion programs for low-level, non-violent offenders struggling with mental health issues and opioid and substance abuse disorder with a nearly 90% success rate.
Keisha Lee, CEO of Annie Malone Children and Family Services, feels that Bell’s work in the community shows that he is for the people. She describes him as forward-thinking in helping get resources to those in need.
“Having the advantage of having a Black man like Wesley in office–coming from where we come from that means a lot,” said Lee.
“If you want something you gotta go get it,” said Bell. “I believe this job is about making sure everyone has a voice, that everyone is heard.
Ashley Winters is a Report for America reporter for the St. Louis American.