Missouri Secretary of State election, 2024

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Missouri Secretary of State
	Democratic primary; Republican primary; General election;
Election details
	Filing deadline: March 26, 2024
	Primary: August 6, 2024; General: November 5, 2024; Pre-election incumbent(s):; Jay Ashcroft (R)
How to vote
	Poll times: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Voting in Missouri
Ballotpedia analysis
	Federal and state primary competitiveness; State executive elections in 2024; Impact of term limits in 2024; State government trifectas; State government triplexes; Ballotpedia's Election Analysis Hub, 2024
Missouri; executive elections
	Governor; Lieutenant Governor; Attorney General; Secretary of State; Treasurer

Missouri 2024 elections

U.S. Senate • U.S. House • Governor • Lt. Gov • Attorney General • Secretary of State • State executive offices • State Senate • State House • Supreme court • Appellate courts • State ballot measures • Local ballot measures • School boards • Municipal • Recalls • How to run for office

Missouri held an election for secretary of state on November 5, 2024. The primary was August 6, 2024. The filing deadline was March 26, 2024.

The Missouri Secretary of State is responsible for administering elections in the state. For more on election administration legislation in Missouri, click here.

Denny Hoskins won election in the general election for Missouri Secretary of State.

For more information about the primaries in this election, click on the links below:

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Missouri Secretary of State

Denny Hoskins defeated Barbara Phifer, Carl Herman Freese, and Jerome H. Bauer in the general election for Missouri Secretary of State on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Denny Hoskins (R)	57.7	1,677,902
		Barbara Phifer (D)	39.7	1,154,090
	Submit photo	Carl Herman Freese (L)	1.7	49,113
		Jerome H. Bauer (G)	1.0	29,012

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 2,910,117
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Missouri Secretary of State

Barbara Phifer defeated Monique Williams and Haley Jacobson in the Democratic primary for Missouri Secretary of State on August 6, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Barbara Phifer	40.9	146,562
	Monique Williams	34.4	123,386
	Haley Jacobson	24.7	88,670

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 358,618
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Missouri Secretary of State

The following candidates ran in the Republican primary for Missouri Secretary of State on August 6, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Denny Hoskins	24.4	157,284
	Shane Schoeller	16.8	108,435
	Mike Carter	14.3	91,956
	Dean Plocher	13.5	86,757
	Mary Coleman	11.3	73,024
	Valentina Gomez Noriega	7.5	48,003
	Jamie Corley	7.2	46,383
	Adam Schwadron	5.0	32,388

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 644,230
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Caleb Rowden (R)

Libertarian primary election

Libertarian primary for Missouri Secretary of State

Carl Herman Freese advanced from the Libertarian primary for Missouri Secretary of State on August 6, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Submit photo	Carl Herman Freese	100.0	2,412

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 2,412
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Candidate profiles

This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.

Barbara Phifer

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "I’m Barbara Phifer, a lifelong Missourian, former United Methodist pastor, and current State Representative running for Missouri Secretary of State. I’ve spent over 40 years in ministry, working in diverse communities and advocating for social justice, which taught me the value of integrity, fairness, and compassion in leadership. My passion for public service led me to the Missouri House of Representatives, where I’ve worked to expand access to healthcare, defend public education, and protect the rights of women, voters, and marginalized communities. Now, I’m running for Secretary of State because I believe every Missourian deserves a government that works for them, not against them. In this role, I will be a nonpartisan guardian of election integrity, ensuring our voting process is fair, transparent, and accessible to all. My commitment to clear ballot language and defending voter rights is driven by my belief that democracy works best when everyone has a voice. With experience as a legislator and a deep understanding of the importance of trust and transparency, I’m ready to serve all Missourians with integrity and accountability."

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

As Missouri’s next Secretary of State, I will ensure our elections are free, fair, transparent, and accessible to every eligible voter. Missouri voters deserve clear, neutral ballot language that isn’t manipulated to push a political agenda. In the face of growing misinformation and attempts to suppress voter participation, I will fight to safeguard our democracy by expanding early voting, supporting absentee voting, and ensuring secure, nonpartisan elections. With my experience as a state representative, I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to protect voters from disenfranchisement, and I’ll bring that commitment to every decision I make.

I will defend Missouri’s public libraries and local control over them, ensuring they remain places of learning, inclusion, and free expression. Recent attacks on libraries and attempts to censor books threaten our core democratic values. I believe library boards, not politicians, should decide how to best serve their communities, and I will support policies that empower local decision-making. Libraries are essential hubs for education, access to information, and community engagement. As Secretary of State, I’ll make sure they have the resources and protections they need to thrive, free from political interference or censorship.

I’m running to protect and expand the rights of all Missourians—whether it’s fighting for reproductive rights, supporting public education, or ensuring equal access to voting. When Missouri was the first state to enact a near-total abortion ban, I knew we had to fight back to restore reproductive freedom and protect women’s healthcare. As a legislator, I’ve consistently stood up for working families, women’s rights, and the LGBTQ+ community. I will bring that same dedication to the Secretary of State’s office, making sure our democracy reflects the will of the people, not political extremes.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Missouri Secretary of State in 2024.

Denny Hoskins

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office:

Missouri State Senate, District 21 (Assumed office: 2017)
Missouri House of Representatives (2009-2017)

Biography: Hoskins earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Central Missouri State University. He served in the Missouri Army National Guard. As of the 2024 election, he was a Certified Public Accountant and worked as a consulting manager.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Hoskins said trust in elections would be his focus and that moving the state to paper ballots and hand counting would increase trust. He also said paper ballots would decrease the threat of other countries interfering in Missouri elections.

Hoskins said he opposed absentee ballots and that “the most secure elections are in-person on Election Day with voter ID and a paper ballot.” He also said he would support making Election Day a state holiday to make voting more accessible for Missouri citizens.

Hoskins said his time in the state legislature showed his experience in election reforms. Hoskins said that, as a legislator, he “pushed for election reforms, including Missouri’s Voter ID law, that have made Missouri’s elections among the most secure in the nation.”

Show sources

Sources: STLPR, "Secretary of State candidate Hoskins says Missouri should hand count ballots," April 4, 2024; Denny Hoskins campaign website, "Home," accessed May 12, 2024; Missouri Senate, "Senator Denny Hoskins," accessed May 12, 2024

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Missouri Secretary of State in 2024.

Voting information

See also: Voting in Missouri

Election information in Missouri: Nov. 5, 2024, election.

What was the voter registration deadline?

In-person: Oct. 9, 2024
By mail: Postmarked by Oct. 9, 2024
Online: Oct. 9, 2024

Was absentee/mail-in voting available to all voters?

No

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot request deadline?

In-person: Nov. 4, 2024
By mail: Received by Oct. 23, 2024
Online: N/A

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot return deadline?

In-person: Nov. 5, 2024
By mail: Received by Nov. 5, 2024

Was early voting available to all voters?

Yes

What were the early voting start and end dates?

Oct. 22, 2024 to Nov. 4, 2024

Were all voters required to present ID at the polls? If so, was a photo or non-photo ID required?

N/A

When were polls open on Election Day?

6:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (CST)

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Expand all | Collapse all

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/bphifer.jpeg

Barbara Phifer (D)

As Missouri’s next Secretary of State, I will ensure our elections are free, fair, transparent, and accessible to every eligible voter. Missouri voters deserve clear, neutral ballot language that isn’t manipulated to push a political agenda. In the face of growing misinformation and attempts to suppress voter participation, I will fight to safeguard our democracy by expanding early voting, supporting absentee voting, and ensuring secure, nonpartisan elections. With my experience as a state representative, I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to protect voters from disenfranchisement, and I’ll bring that commitment to every decision I make.

I will defend Missouri’s public libraries and local control over them, ensuring they remain places of learning, inclusion, and free expression. Recent attacks on libraries and attempts to censor books threaten our core democratic values. I believe library boards, not politicians, should decide how to best serve their communities, and I will support policies that empower local decision-making. Libraries are essential hubs for education, access to information, and community engagement. As Secretary of State, I’ll make sure they have the resources and protections they need to thrive, free from political interference or censorship.

I’m running to protect and expand the rights of all Missourians—whether it’s fighting for reproductive rights, supporting public education, or ensuring equal access to voting. When Missouri was the first state to enact a near-total abortion ban, I knew we had to fight back to restore reproductive freedom and protect women’s healthcare. As a legislator, I’ve consistently stood up for working families, women’s rights, and the LGBTQ+ community. I will bring that same dedication to the Secretary of State’s office, making sure our democracy reflects the will of the people, not political extremes.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Barbara Phifer (D)

I’m deeply passionate about protecting voting rights, defending reproductive freedom, and supporting public education. As Secretary of State, I will work tirelessly to ensure every Missourian can vote without facing unnecessary barriers and fight against efforts to suppress voter turnout. I am also committed to standing up for women’s reproductive rights, especially after Missouri's near-total abortion ban. Finally, I believe in strengthening public education by supporting our schools and libraries, which are vital to fostering an informed and empowered society.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

Barbara Phifer (D)

The Missouri Secretary of State’s office holds a critical role in protecting the integrity of our democracy. Its most important function is overseeing elections, ensuring they are fair, accessible, and secure for all Missourians. This includes managing voter registration, certifying results, and ensuring every eligible voter can cast their ballot without unnecessary obstacles. At a time when trust in elections is fragile, this office must be led by someone committed to nonpartisan fairness, not political agendas that could undermine voter confidence.

A key responsibility of the office is writing clear, unbiased ballot language for constitutional amendments and initiatives. The potential for misleading or manipulative language is a real threat, and the Secretary of State must act as a neutral arbiter to ensure voters fully understand what they are deciding. Manipulating ballot language or pushing biased interpretations risks disenfranchising voters and weakening our democratic process.

Additionally, the office oversees public records, business registrations, and supports our state’s libraries—functions that require transparency and accountability. Missouri cannot afford a leader who would politicize these essential services. The Secretary of State’s role as a guardian of fairness and democratic integrity makes it one of the most important offices in state government, and it must be led by someone dedicated to upholding these values, not advancing partisan aims.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Barbara Phifer (D)

I would recommend a few key works that have deeply shaped my political philosophy, reflecting my lifelong commitment to justice, integrity, and service to others. One of the most influential essays for me is "Letter from a Birmingham Jail" by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Written in 1963, during the height of the civil rights movement, it is a profound statement on the urgency of fighting for justice and equality. Dr. King’s words about the moral responsibility to break unjust laws and his call for nonviolent resistance resonate deeply with my own belief that we must always stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult. His emphasis on justice, equality, and moral leadership continues to inspire my approach to public service.

Another John F. Kennedy’s Profiles in Courage. This book highlights historical figures who, despite facing immense pressure, made decisions based on principle rather than political expediency. JFK’s message of courage in leadership mirrors my own belief that elected officials must prioritize the public good over personal or political interests. Leaders must be willing to act with integrity, even when it’s unpopular or risky.

In terms of television, The West Wing is a favorite because it offers a hopeful and idealistic view of public service. The show depicts the complexities of governance, yet consistently emphasizes the importance of integrity, thoughtful decision-making, and a commitment to bettering the country. Its portrayal of dedicated public servants resonates with my belief that politics, at its core, should be about improving lives and strengthening democracy.

Lastly, the film The Mission is a powerful exploration of justice, faith, and sacrifice, set during a time of colonial oppression in South America. Having spent years living in Uruguay under a dictatorship, I relate strongly to its themes of resistance and the moral struggles leaders face in fighting for what’s right. It’s a moving reminder that,

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Barbara Phifer (D)

I believe the qualities that will make me a successful officeholder are integrity, dedication, and the ability to lead with empathy. Having spent over 40 years as a United Methodist pastor, I’ve built a career rooted in serving others and standing up for what’s right, even in difficult times. I understand the importance of listening to diverse perspectives and building bridges, which is essential in any leadership role.

As a state representative, I’ve proven my ability to navigate complex issues, advocate for the needs of my constituents, and prioritize fairness and transparency. My commitment to protecting voting rights, ensuring clear and impartial ballot language, and defending public resources—like our libraries—comes from a deep sense of responsibility to every Missourian. I don’t shy away from tough decisions, and I always lead with the belief that government should work for the people, not political or special interests.

These experiences have taught me that true leadership is about serving with honesty and a genuine desire to improve the lives of those I represent.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Barbara Phifer (D)

The first historical events I vividly remember are the JFK assassination and the civil rights lunch counter boycotts. Growing up in the Washington, D.C. area, I was right in the heart of it all. I was just a child when my mother took me to the lunch counter boycotts near where we lived. I remember watching people peacefully protest for the right to be treated equally—it was powerful and left a lasting impression on me about the importance of justice and standing up for what’s right. Not long after, I remember the shock and grief that swept the country when President Kennedy was assassinated. Both of these moments shaped my understanding of leadership, equality, and the urgency of public service.

What responsibilities of this office do you personally consider the most important?

Barbara Phifer (D)

The most important responsibility of the Secretary of State is ensuring the integrity and fairness of Missouri’s elections. This role is the cornerstone of our democracy, and it requires a leader who is deeply committed to nonpartisanship and transparency. Protecting the right to vote, ensuring secure and accessible elections, and preventing any attempts to undermine voter confidence are critical in a time when trust in our electoral process is being tested. Every eligible Missourian deserves a system that is free from political manipulation, with clear ballot language and equitable access to voting.

Another key responsibility I prioritize is overseeing ballot language. The Secretary of State must ensure that the language used on ballots is clear, neutral, and free of bias. Confusing or misleading ballot language can disenfranchise voters, making it essential that the person in this office is committed to providing voters with straightforward, accurate information.

Finally, supporting Missouri’s public libraries and ensuring transparency in public records are vital. Libraries are centers of education and free expression, and they should be protected from censorship or political interference. Additionally, maintaining transparent, accessible public records ensures that government remains accountable to the people it serves.

In all these areas, I believe the Secretary of State must act as a fair, impartial guardian of our democratic processes.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Barbara Phifer (D)

Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes

Missouri Women's Leadership Coalition Missouri Women's Political Caucus. Missouri and Kansas Laborers District Council MO AFL-CIO Abortion Action Missouri PROMO PAC

and many more!

Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?

Barbara Phifer (D)

I strongly oppose the proposed changes to Missouri's ballot initiative process. Our current system is one of the few ways that everyday Missourians can directly shape their state’s future, particularly when the state legislature fails to act on issues that matter most to voters. This process has been essential in protecting the rights of workers and defending access to healthcare, reproductive freedom, and other critical issues.

Labor unions and working-class Missourians used the ballot initiative to overturn harmful "Right-to-Work" legislation, standing up for the rights of workers when the legislature sided with corporate elites. The fight for reproductive rights in Missouri has become increasingly urgent since the state passed a near-total abortion ban. The ballot initiative process gives voters a powerful tool to challenge extreme policies that do not reflect the will of the majority. Any changes to this process—like raising the threshold for passing amendments—are designed to silence the voices of Missourians who are fighting for fair wages, reproductive freedom, and healthcare access.

Raising the threshold to 57% serves only special interests and powerful political elites. It’s no coincidence that these changes are being pushed after voters used the current system to expand Medicaid and protect workers' rights—two measures that were deeply unpopular with corporate backers but overwhelmingly supported by Missourians. These proposals aren’t about improving democracy—they’re about making it harder for voters to challenge laws that benefit the wealthy and well-connected.

The ballot initiative process is a lifeline for democracy in Missouri. I support an accessible, transparent process for all voters, not adding unnecessary barriers that would make it harder for Missourians to have their voices heard. We should be empowering voters, not restricting their ability to hold their government accountable.

Past elections

The section below details election results for this office in elections dating back to 2012.