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
Here are the developments from the past week (July 4 – July 11, 2025):
🏛️ Sen. Josh Hawley
Voted in favor of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” (GOP’s 2025 budget reconciliation package), which includes deep Medicaid cuts and work requirements that will strip healthcare coverage from many rural Missourians . The Missouri Dems warn this threatens rural hospitals and could cause up to 250,000 Missourians to lose health insurance and 37,400 jobs by 2035 . Although Hawley later claimed the rural hospital funding would increase, critics point out that the imposed work requirements may actually deprive many rural residents of Medicaid .
🗳️ Sen. Eric Schmitt
Also voted for the same GOP budget reconciliation bill, which includes Medicaid reductions, potential rural hospital closures, and increased energy costs .
⚠️ Summary – Detrimental Impacts on Rural Missouri
Chart 1-a
Here are the votes from July 4–11, 2025 where Rep. Mark Alford took actions that could negatively impact Missourians, especially in rural areas:
⚠️ Negative Impact Votes
July 2, 2025 — Voted Yes on H.R. 1 (the “One Big Beautiful Bill” reconciliation package) This legislation includes proposed Medicaid cuts and stricter work requirements that could strip healthcare coverage from vulnerable rural Missourians and threaten rural hospitals already stretched thin .
References
“Medicaid cuts in ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ could devastate Missouri’s rural hospitals, drive coverage losses,” ABC 17 News (July 3, 2025): https://abc17news.com/news/missouri/2025/07/03/medicaid-cuts-in-big-beautiful-bill-could-devastate-missouris-rural-hospitals-drive-coverage-losses/ “How federal Medicaid changes will affect MO HealthNet and KanCare,” The Beacon News (July 11, 2025): https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/07/11/medicaid-mo-healthnet-kancare-changes-2025/ “States scramble to shield hospitals from GOP Medicaid cuts,” Missouri Independent (July 10, 2025): https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/10/states-scramble-to-shield-hospitals-from-gop-medicaid-cuts/ “Info – H.R. 1 – 119th Congress (2025–2026): One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” Congress.gov: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1/all-info
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.
The U.S. Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to every individual within the United States. It is imperative that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Historically, Missourians and migrant workers have collaborated in agricultural labor, such as apple harvest. This cooperation offers significant opportunities for our agricultural industries and farming families by addressing the need for difficult-to-fill farmhand positions.
To foster a more structured and beneficial approach, I propose that a “Migrant Worker Visa” program be established. This program would enable migrants to legally work on Missouri farms during crop seasons and provide year-round farmhand support for livestock farmers, with an option for renewal annually.
Such a program would provide a much-needed labor source for Missouri farm families. Furthermore, it would generate revenue as migrant workers would contribute to local economies through purchases from retailers, thereby increasing tax revenue for Missouri’s rural counties, cities, towns, and farming communities. Income tax collected from these workers could be directed into the Social Security trust fund. I propose that migrant workers under this program would not be eligible for U.S. Social Security benefits and would be responsible for arranging their retirement plans independently within their home countries.
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.
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
