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Locally grown produce at a Missouri farmers market – fresh, safe, and close to home.
I live in a small farming community in Missouri. Lately, I’ve seen prices shoot up at the grocery store—and I’m not alone. My neighbors feel it too. Tariffs pushed by the Trump administration have made it harder to grow food, ship it, or sell it for a fair price.
What Farmers Are Saying
Many Missouri farmers are frustrated. One corn grower north of Kansas City said the rules keep changing, so it’s hard to plan. Things like fertilizer, seeds, and supplies now cost more because of these trade policies. Source:American Farmland Owner
Deals Lost to Other Countries
China used to be one of the biggest buyers of U.S. farm products. But not anymore. One Missouri farmer lost a multimillion-dollar deal with a buyer in China. The buyer backed out because of tariffs. China also blocked soybeans and other crops from U.S. companies. Sources:
Many can’t. Costs for fertilizer and fuel are way up. Interest rates are high too. At the same time, prices for crops like soybeans have dropped by a third. That makes it harder for farmers to make ends meet. Source:Missouri Independent
Food Prices and Safety Concerns
Families are paying more at the store. Meats, eggs, and other basics have gone up over 5% in the past year. On top of that, there have been many food safety warnings. The CDC is tracking at least 17 outbreaks of foodborne illness—mostly from Salmonella. And in many cases, we’re not even told what brand is responsible. Sources:
We should be able to find fresh, local food at local stores. Why are our stores filled with food that traveled 1,000 miles, while nearby growers struggle to sell what they raise? I’d trust beef, eggs, or vegetables from my neighbors before something shipped in from another country.
Local food means fresher meals, fewer safety risks, and less dependence on big corporations. It’s better for our families, our health, and our economy.
Over the past few weeks, the Supreme Court has made decisions that help Donald Trump’s administration strengthen executive power. In multiple key cases, six conservative justices have outvoted the three liberals, weakening courts’ ability to check the president. Many of these rulings came in one-page orders without full explanations, hiding how and why the court sided with the White House. When judges stack power on one side, our system of checks and balances breaks down and the rule of law erodes .
Education Department Ruling
On July 14, 2025, the Supreme Court cleared the way for President Trump to cut nearly half of the Education Department’s staff. A lower court judge had blocked Trump’s plan to fire about 1,400 workers and move functions like student loans and special education to other agencies. By lifting that block, the court let Trump reshape a cabinet agency without Congress’s approval. Critics warn that students with low incomes or special needs could lose vital support if these duties leave the department .
What about Missouri Schools?
This change affects about 892,246 public school students in Missouri (fall 2023) and could leave only about 880,200 by fall 2025. With fewer workers, the department will struggle to enforce civil-rights rules or run programs like Title I funding, special education, and student loan help. Families in both rural and city areas may lose key support, making schools less fair and hurting Missouri students now and in the years ahead
Blocking Nationwide Injunctions and Birthright Citizenship
On June 27, 2025, the Court used a 6–3 vote to limit judges’ power to block Trump’s policies nationwide. In the birthright citizenship case, it ruled that judges can only protect the people who sue, not everyone in the country. That halted lower court orders that had paused Trump’s executive order ending citizenship for babies born to non-citizen parents. The decision did not rule on the policy’s legality, only on who can block it, effectively letting Trump push forward until more courts weigh in .
Other Key Cases
This term, the Supreme Court also backed other Trump moves. It let his administration resume deporting migrants to third countries without a hearing on harm. It upheld a ban on transgender people serving in the military. It allowed the government to freeze or cut payments to groups that carry out federal work. In each case, conservatives used a fast-track “shadow docket” process, leaving people with fewer legal options and speeding up the president’s agenda .
Undermining Congressional Power
The Court has also let Trump bypass rules set by Congress for independent agencies. It allowed him to fire two Democratic labor board members and paused a judge’s order to reinstate three Consumer Product Safety Commission officials. These watchdog agencies were created by lawmakers to protect the public. By siding with the president, the Court weakens Congress’s power to set terms and duties of these officials, giving the White House more control over agencies meant to stand guard over our rights .
Why This Matters
These rulings reshape Washington’s balance of power. By lifting blocks and narrowing who can challenge policies, the Court hands more power to the president and sidelines Congress. This breaks the Constitution’s plan for three branches to share authority. Justice Sonia Sotomayor called the birthright decision a “travesty for the rule of law.” Legal experts warn that deciding by bare-majority orders without transparency erodes trust in all branches of government .
Public Support for Reform
Many Americans see the danger and want change. A recent Pew Research Center survey found 87% of adults favor term limits for members of Congress, and nearly 80% support age or term limits for Supreme Court justices. This broad agreement crosses party lines and shows voters know rules on service length help keep democracy healthy. Reforming term rules for judges and lawmakers is key to restoring balance and trust in government .
Conclusion and Possible Outcomes
If Supreme Court justices decide cases based on personal views instead of the Constitution, we risk:
Unchecked Power: The presidency could act without real limits.
Weakened Laws: Agencies and programs may be dismantled without Congress.
Loss of Trust: When courts side with power, people stop believing in justice.
Risk of Anarchy: With no faith in the system, some may break rules, leading to chaos.
Only 35% of Americans say they trust the judicial system, the lowest level ever recorded . To protect our republic, we must restore judges who follow the Constitution, not personal views. We need term limits for Supreme Court justices and all elected officials. This will help keep power balanced and ensure our courts serve the people — not one man’s power grab.
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While I am running as a Democrat, I want to speak honestly and respectfully: I am not running as part of the Mainstream Missouri Democratic Party. I’m running as a Common Sense Rural Democrat—grounded in the values, concerns, and daily realities of rural Missouri.
My priorities are shaped by the lived experiences of the people in places like:
Marshall (Saline County)
Sedalia (Pettis County)
El Dorado Springs (Cedar County)
Warsaw (Benton County)
Lamar (Barton County)
Butler (Bates County)
Osceola (St. Clair County)
Clinton (Henry County)
Hermitage (Hickory County) — as well as other rural communities, cities, and towns across our district that face the same challenges and deserve to be heard.
I have great respect for the work many in the state party are doing, but their platform is primarily shaped by urban and suburban priorities. That approach doesn’t fully reflect the specific needs of our rural communities and farm towns—places where roads, schools, hospitals, and family farms are the backbone of daily life.
At times, I may sound more like an independent voice—and in many ways, I am. But I am squarely focused on one thing: serving the people of Missouri’s 4th District, regardless of party or political opinion. I don’t answer to a political machine or an urban party platform—I answer to the people who live, work, and raise families right here in rural Missouri.
I’m a Missouri Grown Candidate—raised here, rooted here, and running to represent all Missourians with honesty, fairness, and common sense.
A recent MSNBC opinion highlights how the Trump administration’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) — previously led by Elon Musk — has slashed Social Security staffing, closed field offices and imposed new verification rules—sowing chaos at an agency that serves over 66 million Americans[1]. Under Commissioner Frank Bisignano, more than 7,000 positions have already been eliminated, call wait times have exploded, and critical in-person services are disappearing[2].
Who’s Responsible
President Donald Trump — directed the formation of DOGE to deliver “efficiency” through across-the-board cuts.
Elon Musk — DOGE’s original leader, whose aggressive cost-cutting blueprint laid the groundwork for widespread staffing and office closures.
Commissioner Frank Bisignano — confirmed in May 2025 and now overseeing the implementation of DOGE’s staffing and policy changes[3].
Impact on Missourians
AP News reports that at least 47 local SSA field offices nationwide are slated for closure this year under DOGE’s directives—dozens of which serve rural areas where Missourians already drive hours for in-person help[4]. Kiplinger confirmed these closures affect communities of every size, forcing working families to choose between lost wages and long drives just to speak to a clerk[5].
Rapidly aging population: Between 2020 and 2024, the 65 and over cohort in Kansas and Missouri grew by 13 percent, swelling demand for SSA services[6].
High disability prevalence: 10.5 percent of Missourians under 65 live with a disability—higher than the national average of 9.1 percent—and rely on SSDI for essential income[7][8].
Long-Term Pain for Elderly and Disabled Americans
These cuts don’t just inconvenience; they threaten the checks that sustain millions. As of May 2025, the Social Security Administration’s Monthly Statistical Snapshot shows:
69.628 million Americans receive Social Security (OASDI) benefits each month[10].
61.405 million are aged 65 or older receiving Old-Age and Survivors Insurance[10].
74.090 million Americans receive Social Security, SSI, or both[10].
Many of these beneficiaries live on fixed incomes and cannot afford repeated travel or endless hold times, putting them at risk for missed benefits and financial hardship.
References
[1] Zeeshan Aleem, “How DOGE’s reckless cuts created chaos at the Social Security Administration,” Yahoo News.
[2] Meryl Kornfield & Hannah Natanson, “Social Security stops reporting call wait times and other metrics,” The Washington Post.
[3] “Social Security’s new commissioner, rule reversals and cost cuts,” MarketWatch.
[4] “A list of Social Security offices expected to close in 2025,” AP News.
[5] Donna LeValley, “47 Local Social Security Offices to Close After DOGE Cuts,” Kiplinger.
[6] “Fewer kids, more retirees in Kansas and Missouri,” Axios.
[10] Social Security Administration, “Table 1 & 2: Number of people receiving Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, or both & Social Security benefits, May 2025,” Monthly Statistical Snapshot.
If you’re committed to standing with rural Missourians, our seniors and disabled neighbors in this fight against wasteful cuts, please chip in to keep our movement strong: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/ricky-dana-for-congress
Recently, Congress rammed through the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” — a sweeping tax-and-spending package that permanently locks in Trump’s 2017 tax cuts for the well-off while slashing critical supports for working families. The majority of our current Republican leaders in Washington — including Speaker Mike Johnson and Missouri’s GOP delegation — pulled the lever on this giveaway.
The Republicans just keep voting against the people who put them in office.
What this MEANS for Missourians
• 💸 $17 BILLION in lost federal Medicaid funding over the next decade — forcing our state to either cut services or kick 130,000 people off their health coverage.
• 🏥 Rural hospitals on the brink face deeper funding cuts despite a tiny $50 BILLION national rural hospital fund, compared to $1.2 TRILLION in healthcare cuts nationwide.
• 🥘 SNAP beneficiaries will encounter harsher work requirements and higher state costs, jeopardizing food security for tens of thousands of Missouri families.
• 📈 The Congressional Budget Office warns this bill adds $2.8 TRILLION to the deficit, fueling inflation, higher interest rates, and recession risk — and who pays? Middle and Lower-class Missourians.
No more fluff. This is a direct hit on hardworking Missouri families, our rural communities, and our state budget. If our leaders truly put Missouri first, they’d INVEST in people — not pad the pockets of the richest 1%.
Missouri deserves leaders who answer to the people—not deep-pocketed special interests. When elected officials prioritize outside donors over their own constituents, they betray the trust placed in them.
We need representatives in Washington who will govern with integrity, seek common ground, and stay focused on practical solutions that move our state forward.
In 2026, let’s come together to support leaders who put Missouri first—not personal ambition or outside agendas. Our state’s future depends on it.
I’m running to represent Missouri’s 4th District (western half), and I invite you to learn more at https://rickydana.org. Let’s make this a year of principled leadership for all of Missouri.
In a time when headlines can often feel overwhelming, it’s important to take a moment to recognize the positive developments happening right here in Missouri and across the country. From economic growth to community resilience, there’s plenty to celebrate—and even more reason to remain hopeful about the future.
Missouri’s Economy Continues to Strengthen
Recent reports show that Missouri’s economy is on solid ground, with unemployment remaining low and new job opportunities emerging in key industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and technology. Small businesses—the backbone of our communities—are thriving, thanks in part to local initiatives supporting entrepreneurship. Whether it’s a new shop opening on Main Street or a farmer adopting innovative techniques to boost yields, Missourians are proving that hard work and innovation lead to success.
Investments in Infrastructure Creating Opportunity
Roads, bridges, and broadband expansion might not always make the flashiest headlines, but they’re critical to our daily lives. Missouri is seeing significant investments in infrastructure, ensuring safer travel, better connectivity, and long-term economic growth. These improvements don’t just fix potholes—they create jobs, attract businesses, and make our state an even better place to live and work.
Communities Coming Together
One of the most inspiring things about Missouri is the way our communities rally together in times of need. Recently, we’ve seen neighbors helping neighbors after severe weather, volunteers stepping up for local food drives, and organizations working to support veterans, teachers, and first responders. These acts of kindness remind us that no matter our differences, we share a common commitment to lifting each other up.
National Progress Worth Noting
Beyond our state lines, there’s encouraging news as well. Inflation rates are cooling, energy production remains strong, and medical breakthroughs continue to improve lives. While challenges remain, these milestones show what’s possible when we focus on solutions.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
Missouri—and America—has always been at its best when we focus on what unites us: a shared belief in opportunity, hard work, and community. As we move forward, let’s continue to celebrate the progress we’ve made while working together to tackle the challenges ahead.
Conclusion
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we can build a brighter future for our families and our state. As a proud Missourian, I believe in the Show-Me State’s values—hard work, common sense, and accountability. That’s exactly what I’ll bring to Congress. I’m not here to make empty promises; I’m here to deliver real solutions—fighting for stronger job numbers, safer communities, and a government that actually works for you. Whether it’s standing up for our farmers, veterans, or small businesses, I’ll make sure Missouri’s voice is heard loud and clear in Washington. Let’s show the rest of the country what happens when leaders put people first.
Every donation brings us closer to real change. Your support fuels our fight for stronger communities, better opportunities, and honest leadership. From my heart—thank you for standing with me.
Authorized by Ricky Dana for U.S. House – MO-04 The views expressed in this communication are my own as a candidate and reflect my vision for Missouri’s 4th District. This message is prepared and distributed by my official campaign committee. For more information about our campaign or to get involved, visit rickydana.org.
Together, we can build a stronger future for Missouri.
Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer—it’s a sacred day of remembrance for the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation. Their sacrifice ensures the freedoms we cherish, and it’s our duty to honor their legacy with gratitude and respect.
Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day began after the Civil War as a way to honor fallen soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers. Over time, it evolved into a national day of remembrance for all who have died in military service.
As General John A. Logan proclaimed in 1868:
“The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country.” (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)
Today, we remember not only those from distant wars but also the heroes of recent conflicts—those who fought in Iraq, Afghanistan, and beyond. Their courage and dedication remind us that freedom is never free.
Ways to Honor Their Sacrifice
Attend a Memorial Day Ceremony – Many communities hold parades or wreath-laying ceremonies at veterans’ cemeteries. Participating shows respect for those who served.
Visit a Veterans’ Cemetery – Place flags or flowers on graves, or simply take a moment to reflect on the names etched in stone.
Fly the Flag at Half-Staff Until Noon – This tradition honors the fallen before raising the flag to full-staff to symbolize the nation’s resolve.
Support Veterans’ Families – Organizations like the Gold Star Families provide support to those who have lost loved ones in service.
Educate the Next Generation – Share stories of heroism with children to ensure the legacy of our fallen is never forgotten.
A Nation Grateful
Memorial Day unites us beyond politics, race, or creed. It’s a day to set aside differences and remember that the liberties we enjoy were secured through unimaginable sacrifice.
As President Abraham Lincoln said in his Gettysburg Address:
“The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.” (National Archives)
This Memorial Day, let us pause, reflect, and honor those who gave everything for our country. Their courage inspires us to uphold the values they fought to protect.
To the fallen—we remember. To their families—we stand with you. To our veterans—we thank you.
You must be willing to consider evidence that contradicts your beliefs and admit you may be wrong. Intelligence is not knowing everything, but being able to challenge everything you know. #questioneverything even yourself.
No matter our differences, we all want safety, happiness, and a better future for those we love. Tonight, let’s focus on what unites us—kindness, respect, and hope. Together, we must build bridges, not walls.
Wishing you peace, rest, and sweet dreams. Good night, friends. ❤️🌙💙
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