On the latest edition of Politically Speaking, Mike Jones talks with St. Louis Public Radio’s Jason Rosenbaum about the state of St. Louis and St. Louis County politics — and how redistricting may play a role in reshaping both environments.
Jones is a man of many titles, but most recently was a member of the state Board of Education. He’s also served as a St. Louis alderman, a corporate executive, the head of the St. Louis housing authority and an adviser to a St. Louis mayor and a St. Louis County executive. He retired from public life recently but is still a sought-after analyst of regional politics.
Here’s what Jones talked about on the show:
- How St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones is adjusting to being the chief executive of the city — and what potential pitfalls she needs to avoid in order to be successful.
- The break in St. Louis County between Black elected officials and white progressives. That coalition helped St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell win in 2018, but it’s been strained amid disputes between St. Louis County Executive Sam Page and the county council.
- How Congresswoman Cori Bush could be affected if redistricting moves her district farther west into St. Louis County. This could be the first time in decades the 1st District doesn’t have a majority or plurality of Black people — but Jones said that may not mean a white candidate would be favored.
- Bush’s influence in regional politics, and the prospect of her facing a primary challenge from people outside her political orbit next year.
Jones began his political career more than three decades ago as a St. Louis alderman in the city’s 21st Ward. Since then, he’s become a go-to adviser for state, city and county officials. Jones is also a columnist for the St. Louis American, writing about regional and national politics.
In addition to his political pursuits, Jones is a longtime fan of professional basketball — and often incorporates sports metaphors into his political analysis.
Follow Jason Rosenbaum on Twitter: @jrosenbaum
Follow Mike Jones on Twitter: @OGMikeJones
