Gov. Jay Nixon told various media outlets yesterday that he was far, far away from the Show Me State.
The first-term chief executive took part in a Department of Defense-sponsored trip to the Middle East. The trip was meant to show governors how National Guard troops were interacting with other elements of the military.
Nixon told reporters that Missouri troops were in good spirits and not complaining about equipment issues. According to the Springfield News-Leader, soldiers were grateful that Nixon took time to visit them.
One local lawmaker – Rep. Stephen Webber, D-Columbia – also expressed positive vibes about Nixon’s visit to the Middle East. Before becoming a lawmaker, Webber served tours of duty in Iraq as a U.S. Marine.
“As a Veteran, I am grateful that Governor Nixon is demonstrating to our brave troops that Missourians will not forget their sacrifice,” Webber said in a statement. “When I was a 20 year old Marine in Iraq I would have been thrilled by a visit from Missouri’s Governor. I know the support that Governor Nixon has shown during this trip will mean a lot to our troops and their families.”
Gov. Matt Blunt, who served in the United States Navy, made a trip to Iraq in 2006.
One interesting footnote: Nixon did not turn over power to Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder. This might seem unusual on its face, but a state Supreme Court case essentially leaves it up to the governor if he wants to temporarily devolve power.
Tags: iraq, jay nixon, peter kinder, stephen webberCategories: Politics, State Politics.
