ST. LOUIS — Missouri voters will head to the polls on November 5, 2024, to cast their ballots in several high-stakes races and vote on constitutional amendments that could reshape state policies on abortion, voting systems, and minimum wage.
The presidential contest tops the ballot, with Vice President Kamala Harris facing former President Donald Trump. Libertarian candidate Chase Oliver and Green Party candidate Jill Stein will also appear on the ballot. The winner will claim Missouri’s 10 electoral votes.
In state-level races, Republican Senator Josh Hawley seeks a second term against Democratic challenger Lucas Kunce. The two candidates are set to debate on FOX 2 on October 31 at 7 p.m. The governor’s race features Republican Mike Kehoe and Democrat Crystal Quade competing to replace term-limited Governor Mike Parson.
A key ballot measure, Constitutional Amendment 3, would amend the state constitution regarding abortion rights. The proposal would establish reproductive health rights, including access to abortion and contraceptives, while specifying restrictions after fetal viability except to protect a woman’s life and health.
Voters will also consider Constitutional Amendment 7, which would restrict voting to citizens only and ban ranked-choice voting in state elections. Additionally, Proposition A would gradually increase the minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2026 and establish paid sick leave requirements.
Recent voting patterns show Missouri has shifted from its historical role as a presidential bellwether. The state has backed Republican presidential candidates in the last six elections, though Democrats maintain strong support in St. Louis, Kansas City, and Columbia.
Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. Voters must present valid identification, such as a Missouri driver’s license, nondriver license, U.S. passport, or military ID. Voters may cast a ballot two weeks before election day at several locations in the state. The voter registration deadline is October 9.
In previous elections, approximately 25-28% of votes were cast before Election Day. Missouri does not conduct automatic recounts, but candidates may request one if the margin is within 0.5% for state and federal races or 1% for local contests.
