(From the Thomas Ross Campaign)Thomas Ross, a small business owner and lifelong Joplin resident, has officially announced his candidacy for Missouri State Representative in House District 161. Ross, who previously ran for the seat in 2024 against incumbent Lane Roberts, is entering the 2026 race with renewed focus and growing community support.
Ross made a notable impression during his 2024 campaign, despite limited resources. After declaring his candidacy in May 2023, his campaign spent just $3,615.43, compared to the $32,194.51 spent by Rep. Roberts following Ross’s entry into the race. Despite being outspent by nearly 9 to 1, Ross secured 35% of the vote—an impressive showing for a grassroots campaign run with minimal funding and no political machine behind it.
Now, with Rep. Roberts term-limited and several of his legislative decisions—such as votes supporting utility rate hikes, property tax increases, and the reallocation of Joplin taxpayer dollars to benefit Jackson County, raising concern among constituents, Ross believes the people of District 161 are ready for new leadership.
“This campaign is about representation,” said Ross. “It’s about bringing the voice of Joplin, not lobbyists or outside interests, back to Jefferson City.”
Ross’s deep community involvement sets him apart. He serves as Vice President of Vita Nova, a Joplin-based nonprofit that provides transitional housing and support services for displaced individuals, including local veterans. He is also the incoming Vice President of the Kiwanis Club of Joplin, one of the oldest chapters in Missouri, known for its longstanding commitment to children’s health, education, and leadership development.
His public service doesn’t end there. In 2024, Ross was elected Chair of Legislative District 161, a position in which he has worked to engage and educate voters, register new constituents, and advocate for the district’s needs, often traveling to Jefferson City at his own expense.
In addition to his civic work, Ross is an entrepreneur. He owns and operates a small event venue in Joplin, home to the local chapter of Toastmasters International, and runs a
small business management firm. Balancing these responsibilities with family life, Ross is also a devoted husband and father of two young children.
Despite his accomplishments, Ross remains humble about his motivations. “I’m not running for recognition,” he says. “I’m running to be a servant-leader, someone who listens to the people, understands their challenges, and works relentlessly to improve their lives.”
With the seat now open and no incumbent in the race, Ross enters as a clear frontrunner backed not by special interests, but by the local community. His campaign emphasizes transparency, accountability, and a return to constituent-first representation.
“This is what the role of State Representative was meant to be,” Ross stated. “Someone from the community, serving the community.”
As the campaign for District 161 unfolds, Thomas Ross is emerging as a candidate who combines real-world experience, a deep understanding of local issues, and a passion for public service. These are qualities that may resonate with voters seeking change in Jefferson City.
2 comments:
Lane Roberts is not running again, as he is termed-out. Thomas is the only person who has filed an MEC and announced candidacy.
You know, I read that release and overlooked that. It doesn't seem like it should already be Roberts' final term. I have changed the headline. Thanks for catching that.
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