Two Black lawmakers from the St. Louis region will help lead Missouri House Democrats after a historic election that broke the Republican supermajority in Jefferson City.
State Rep. Marlon Anderson, a Democrat from St. Louis, was re-elected Thursday as assistant minority floor leader, while Rep. Stephanie Boykin, a Democrat from Florissant, was chosen as caucus vice chair. They are the only Black members of the seven-person Democratic leadership team.
The votes followed Tuesday’s election, when Democrats flipped 16 House seats to expand their caucus from 52 to 68 members. Republicans retain the majority with 95 seats, their smallest margin since 2008, but no longer have the 109 votes needed to override gubernatorial vetoes without Democratic support.
“After a very loud message by Missouri voters on Nov. 3, it’s clear they are looking to see more of what Democrats can do and what solutions we can bring to the table,” Anderson said.
Anderson, who represents part of North St. Louis, is entering his fourth term. Boykin, who represents part of North St. Louis County, will begin her second term.
House Democrats also unanimously re-elected Rep. Ashley Aune of Kansas City as minority leader. Other leaders include Rep. Mark Boyko of Kirkwood as minority whip, Rep. Bridget Walsh Moore of St. Louis as policy chair, Rep. Eric Woods of Kansas City as caucus chair and Rep. Pattie Mansur of Kansas City as caucus secretary.
Democrats also gained two Senate seats Tuesday, ending Republican supermajorities in both legislative chambers.
The 104th General Assembly convenes Jan. 6, 2027.