06.30.25 Legislator Sean Smith alleged misuse of public resources
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2025
Jackson County Executive refers Legislator Sean Smith for investigation over alleged misuse of public resources for political campaign
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. announced today that he has formally referred Legislator Sean Smith to Prosecuting Attorney Melesa Johnson and Sheriff Darryl Forté for investigation into the potential unlawful use of public resources to support a partisan political campaign.
The County Executive, as required by the Jackson County Charter and entrusted by voters, is obligated to ensure that state and local laws are faithfully followed. The information brought to his attention shows that Legislator Smith used county facilities, staff time, taxpayer-funded technology and data to support political efforts related to the recall of a democratically elected official.
Central to the referral is a video presentation that was created and distributed using county resources and originally included statements advocating for the recall effort. The video is now hosted on Legislator Smith’s campaign website, where campaign branding and imagery have been added. After being informed that his conduct violated state law, Legislator Smith edited the video to remove the advocacy content. The revised version now ends abruptly and omits its original conclusion. Despite the edits, the video remains active and has already been viewed more than 4,000 times. It can be accessed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Y5z9cDzqXw.
Missouri law, including §§ 115.013(20) and 115.646, prohibits public officials from using taxpayer resources to support or oppose any candidate or ballot measure. The information submitted to law enforcement also includes evidence that Legislator Smith was fully aware that such use of public resources was improper and yet continued to engage in it.
“The law is clear – public resources cannot be used to serve political purposes,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “These actions undermine the public trust and the integrity of our government. We owe it to the people of Jackson County to ensure that any misuse of their tax dollars is investigated fully and fairly.”
The County Executive’s Office has submitted multiple documents to Prosecutor Johnson and Sheriff Forté today, with additional materials forthcoming. Because Legislator Smith plays a role in setting the county budget and overseeing agencies that may be involved in an investigation, the Executive’s letter recommends consideration of appointing a special prosecutor or independent investigator.
The County Executive’s Office is also continuing to review information suggesting that other county officials or staff may have been involved and will pursue all appropriate legal remedies to protect public accountability. A copy of the letter is attached.