Capitol Calling

Sen. Joe Keaveny’s legislation that would, among other things, remove the governor’s power to appoint members of the St. Louis Board of Police Commissioners. It colloquially known as the “local control” bill.

It’s an issue that’s effectively forged surprising alliances throughout the Missouri political universe. Supporters include Democrats - including St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay, St. Louis Board of Alderman President Lewis Reed and Keaveny - as well as powerful Republicans like House Speaker Steve Tilley, R-Perryvile, and Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder.

But the measure also attracted a wide set of opponents, such as members of the St. Louis Tea Party, Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal, D-University City, and Gov. Jay Nixon. And it’s likely to face a filibuster throughout the day.

The above audio clip is an exchange between Keaveny and Sen. Will Kraus, R-Lee’s Summit. Kraus unsuccessfully tried to attach an amendment that would include the other city without local control - Kansas City - in the legislation.