As tensions rise across the country, Missouri Senator Josh Hawley proves to be a disgustingly unfit leader, yet Washington University Board Members, among many others, continue to not address their financial and political support in the past. After his actions of fist-pumping the insurrectionists at the capital, he later denied this engagement and even his support for objecting the Electoral College results. As a result, Hawley is receiving intense but due backlash from the unapproving people of the US and even longtime supporters from Missouri. As Missourians, we must push leaders to denounce this act and demand better representation.

A recent article from StudLife’s Matthew Friedman and Curran Neenan describes the college’s response to Hawley’s actions. Many of the big names on campus have denounced any contributions that were made towards Hawley and his campaign, including John Danforth, former Missouri Attorney General. Regarding Hawley’s role in the deadly insurrection as the U.S. Capitol, Danforth even said that “he [Hawley] created an event…that would be the focal point for what turned out to be one of the darkest days in American history.” These strong words have set the expectation for other Wash. U. supporters, yet some have remained silent. Craig D. Schnuck and Stephen F. Brauer, two Wash. U. Board members, have not addressed their maxed-out contributions to Hawley’s campaign and reelection efforts despite many calls of condemnation. Though his actions at the capital were telling of his mindset during this political storm, there are many other events that deserve attention and disapproval of Hawley. In addition, there are steps that need to be taken now to cut off his destructive and undemocratic legacy.

Recent reports have found that the Senate Conservative fund has put $700,000 behind Hawley after his provocation of rioters at the capital. Not only does this show that they support his actions, but that they also want to back his campaign. While many organizations have been working to stop his reelection to the Senate, few have focused on his potential presidential campaign. Though he has denied the opportunity to run in 2024 because “there’s a lot of work to do” in the Senate, it is still a possibility. However, Hawley would need the same fanbase that former president Donald Trump has, and because Trump may run again in 2024, Hawley is likely aware that he could not sustain a successful campaign. That being said, the massive donations towards Hawley are undoubtedly to be used for his pursuits in the Senate.

Missouri’s senators and representatives don’t accurately represent many individuals in the state, but this is not new news. Although Missouri compared to other states is right-wing dominant, the people who represent us do not truly encompass the Missouri population. Missouri voters are simply not near as radically right as those who represent our state. Hawley’s approval rates have fallen since the January 6th events–he went from 42% to 36%.

Missouri has had varied responses to Hawley’s actions, but many organizations and activist groups have put extra effort behind booting him out of office. This is not Missouri, and that will be proved. Schnuck and Brauer continue to stay silent, perpetuating the acceptance of bigotry like this display. The Lincoln Project has devoted a lot of their work to anti-Hawley campaigns (despite their corrupt engagements with other political movements), and even faith-based organizations have urged his resignation. Although the Lincoln Project has proven to be corrupt in many ways, it has brought a sustainable amount of attention to local and national efforts to unseat Hawley. Hawley’s actions require condemnation, and by refusing to do that, Missouri leaders prove that democracy is crippling, and bigotry is acceptable.