State health director Donald Kauerauf’s confirmation failed to win Missouri Senate approval Tuesday following criticism from a group of conservative Republicans.
After the unsuccessful nomination, Gov. Mike Parson appointed Richard Moore, general counsel for the department, as acting director while next steps are considered. The governor did not shy away from expressing his disappointment in his fellow Republicans.
“Contrary to what some Senators believe,” Parson wrote in a statement late Tuesday, “tarnishing a man’s character by feeding misinformation, repeating lies, and disgracing 35 years of public health experience is not what it means to be conservative.”
Senators had until the end of the week to confirm Kauerauf under Missouri law, but with lawmakers deciding not to convene Wednesday or Thursday because of inclement weather, Tuesday was the last day for senators to approve the appointment.
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