Rusty Black

Rusty Black is an incumbent Republican State Senator for Missouri's 12th district, having previously served in the Missouri House of Representatives from 2017 to 2023. A lifelong Missourian, he was born in Saint Joseph, educated at the University of Missouri, and retired in 2016 after a 32-year career as an agriculture educator. He and his wife reside in Chillicothe, where they manage a small farm. Black is a well-known conservative who champions the protection of constitutional rights, responsible government, and pro-gun and pro-life policies. Inspired by his veteran son, he advocates for improved care and services for veterans, particularly those struggling with PTSD. He seeks to continue his work upholding these values in the state legislature.