Missouri
Jay Ashcroft draws bipartisan attacks over comments about veterans benefits • Missouri Independent
Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft is facing criticism from Republican and Democratic rivals over comments he made at a candidate forum this weekend calling into question the fairness of special benefits for veterans.
During a panel for gubernatorial candidates at the annual Missouri Republican Party Lincoln Days in Kansas City over the weekend, Ashcroft was asked how the state can better support veterans and active duty military personnel.
Ashcroft said “we need to do what we promised them,” before acknowledging he was about to say something that “probably isn’t what you want for the answer to your question.”
“I don’t think we ought to treat people based on classifications,” he said. “I think we ought to treat everybody equally. And I don’t think we ought to say that if you live here, we’re gonna charge you this, but if you live here, we charge you this. I don’t think we ought to say if you’re in the military, we’ll give you this discount, but everybody else has to pay twice as much. I don’t think that’s good government.”
When someone is a member of the military and moves into the state, Ashcroft said, “it’s harder sometimes to get licensed and make sure you have licensing reciprocity. What I always said was, why don’t we just make that rule for everybody? Why don’t we just say that government is the problem, and let’s get government out of the way, let people make their own decisions and not keep picking and choosing winners and losers.”
He concluded: “I appreciate veterans. I have veterans in my family. I like what they’ve done. But what we ought to do is say, if it’s good for veterans, it’s good to do it for everyone.”
This answer from @JayAshcroftMO was the most discussed answer from the @MissouriGOP forum yesterday.
Jay Ashcroft comes out against military discounts for our state’s veterans. Shameful. #MOGOV pic.twitter.com/g1iUBym36a
— West STL Republican (@WestStLouisGOP) February 18, 2024
State Sen. Bill Eigel, a Weldon Spring Republican who served in the Air Force, responded to Ashcroft’s comments during the forum by saying he was “stunned to hear one of the candidates here say he’s not interested in looking into veteran’s issues or helping them out.”
He continued his criticism Wednesday, as footage of Ashcroft’s comments began to spread on social media.
“I lost friends. I saw the struggle upon returning to the states,” he said. “I disdain the ruling elite who send our men and women to die in their wars, all while doing nothing to ensure their sacrifice is honored when they return home.”
Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, a Republican from Jefferson City who also participated in the candidate forum, said Wednesday evening that for Jay Ashcroft to “treat our veterans as anything less than heroes is disrespectful to all veterans and their families. Communities across our state value our nation’s heroes and their service and sacrifice to our country, and they would want their governor to do the same.”
Democrats also piled on.
Emma O’Brien, press secretary for the Democratic Governors Association, called Ashcroft an “insider politician who only looks out for himself, but wants to rip away benefits from members of the military and veterans who put their lives on the line to protect our freedom.”
In a statement to The Independent Wednesday evening, Ashcroft did not address the criticism but said it is “shameful that we have failed to fulfill our commitment to our veterans.”
“No Americans make a greater sacrifice for our freedoms and security than the men and women who wear the uniform of our armed forces,” the statement read. “The sacrifices that they and their families make are unimaginable for those of us who have not served. I honor that service and as governor will make our commitment to them a priority, without qualification.”
Missouri
BetMGM bonus code CUSE: Extended $1500 TNF bonus in Missouri!
On Thursday, December 18, 2025, the momentum of BetMGM Sportsbook’s official launch in Missouri continues to build. As the legal sports betting era takes hold across the Show-Me State, new users can capitalize on BetMGM Missouri’s premier welcome promotion: the BetMGM bonus code CUSE unlocks a $1,500 First Bet Offer in MO, providing one of the most significant safety nets available in the national market.
This launch-specific offer represents a major deviation from the standard promotions typically found in established markets. By activating the BetMGM bonus code CUSE today, Missouri bettors secure insurance on their very first wager, allowing them to explore the platform’s extensive markets with peace of mind, as their initial bet will be refunded in bonus bets if it loses.
BetMGM Bonus Code CUSE Sets a High Bar for Missouri:
The timing of this rollout is perfect for local fans, as the St. Louis Blues continue their season and the NFL enters the critical Week 16 stretch. While some sportsbooks offer small, fixed-sum “bet and get” deals, the BetMGM Missouri structure is designed for a high-ceiling play. If your first bet up to $1,500 loses, BetMGM will refund your entire stake in bonus bets.
Key Deal Terms:
- Bonus Code: CUSE
- Offer (Missouri Only): $1,500 First Bet Offer (Stake refunded as bonus bets if you lose).
- Value Differential: Offers a significantly higher ceiling for first-time users compared to standard fixed-bonus deals.
- Launch Date: December 2025 (Live Now).
Thursday Night Football: Rams vs. Seahawks Matchup Details (NFL Week 16):
The biggest stage for Missouri bettors tonight is Thursday Night Football, featuring a pivotal NFC West clash between the Los Angeles Rams and the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field.
Betting Odds:
- Spread: Seahawks -1.5
- Over/Under: 42.5
- Moneyline: Rams +110 | Seahawks -120
- All odds above subject to change.
Xbox Bowl: Missouri State vs. Arkansas State Matchup Details:
Adding to the excitement is the Xbox Bowl at the Ford Center at The Star. This game marks a historic milestone as the Missouri State Bears make their FBS bowl debut against the Arkansas State Red Wolves.
Betting Odds:
- Spread: Arkansas State -1
- Over/Under: 54.5
- Moneyline: Missouri State -104 | Arkansas State -105
- All odds above subject to change.
By using the BetMGM bonus code CUSE to wager on any of these markets—whether backing the Rams (+110) or taking the Bears (-104) in their bowl debut—your first bet is protected. If your pick hits, you keep the cash; if it falls short, your stake returns as bonus bets.
How to Activate the BetMGM Bonus Code CUSE:

- Sign Up: Click through to the BetMGM app or site and register your new account in Missouri.
- Enter Code: Ensure the BetMGM bonus code CUSE is entered in the designated field during registration.
- Deposit: Fund your account with a minimum deposit of $10.
- Place Your First Bet: Wager on any market, such as Rams vs. Seahawks or the Xbox Bowl.
- Get Your Bonus: If your first bet loses, BetMGM will refund your stake (up to $1,500) in bonus bets!
Conclusion: BetMGM Missouri Delivers a Premier Launch Offer!
The arrival of BetMGM in Missouri brings a top-tier betting experience to the state. By engaging the BetMGM bonus code CUSE during this launch week, sports fans can lock in a massive $1,500 safety net, ensuring the strongest possible start to the legal betting era in Missouri.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. See BetMGM.com for Terms. 21+ only. MO Only. New Customer Offer (If applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. Please gamble responsibly. Minimum $10 deposit required. Bonus bets expire in 7 days. One new player offer. Add’l terms.
If you or a loved one has questions or needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net for more information.
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Missouri
Missouri Lottery Powerball, Pick 3 winning numbers for Dec. 17, 2025
The Missouri Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big. Here’s a look at Dec. 17, 2025, results for each game:
Winning Powerball numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
25-33-53-62-66, Powerball: 17, Power Play: 4
Check Powerball payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Pick 3 numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
Midday: 7-2-7
Midday Wild: 0
Evening: 8-0-0
Evening Wild: 6
Check Pick 3 payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Pick 4 numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
Midday: 7-6-5-1
Midday Wild: 2
Evening: 0-1-5-9
Evening Wild: 4
Check Pick 4 payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Cash4Life numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
03-32-33-36-59, Cash Ball: 03
Check Cash4Life payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Cash Pop numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
Early Bird: 03
Morning: 08
Matinee: 15
Prime Time: 01
Night Owl: 09
Check Cash Pop payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Show Me Cash numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
06-07-09-13-15
Check Show Me Cash payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Powerball Double Play numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
24-43-65-66-68, Powerball: 03
Check Powerball Double Play payouts and previous drawings here.
Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results
Are you a winner? Here’s how to claim your lottery prize
All Missouri Lottery retailers can redeem prizes up to $600. For prizes over $600, winners have the option to submit their claim by mail or in person at one of Missouri Lottery’s regional offices, by appointment only.
To claim by mail, complete a Missouri Lottery winner claim form, sign your winning ticket, and include a copy of your government-issued photo ID along with a completed IRS Form W-9. Ensure your name, address, telephone number and signature are on the back of your ticket. Claims should be mailed to:
Ticket Redemption
Missouri Lottery
P.O. Box 7777
Jefferson City, MO 65102-7777
For in-person claims, visit the Missouri Lottery Headquarters in Jefferson City or one of the regional offices in Kansas City, Springfield or St. Louis. Be sure to call ahead to verify hours and check if an appointment is required.
For additional instructions or to download the claim form, visit the Missouri Lottery prize claim page.
When are the Missouri Lottery drawings held?
- Powerball: 9:59 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
- Mega Millions: 10 p.m. Tuesday and Friday.
- Pick 3: 12:45 p.m. (Midday) and 8:59 p.m. (Evening) daily.
- Pick 4: 12:45 p.m. (Midday) and 8:59 p.m. (Evening) daily.
- Cash4Life: 8 p.m. daily.
- Cash Pop: 8 a.m. (Early Bird), 11 a.m. (Late Morning), 3 p.m. (Matinee), 7 p.m. (Prime Time) and 11 p.m. (Night Owl) daily.
- Show Me Cash: 8:59 p.m. daily.
- Lotto: 8:59 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday.
- Powerball Double Play: 9:59 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Missouri editor. You can send feedback using this form.
Missouri
Bet365 bonus code SYRACUSE: Expanded $365 “Bowl Season” bonus in Missouri!
As of Wednesday, December 17, 2025, Bowl Season is officially underway, the NBA regular season rolls on, and Bet365 Sportsbook is cementing its status in Missouri. To keep the energy high during this pivotal launch month, Bet365 Missouri is presenting a can’t-miss opportunity for tonight’s action: the Bet365 bonus code SYRACUSE unlocks a guaranteed Bet $10, Get $365 in Bonus Bets offer for all new Missouri customers.
This bonus acts as a strategic outlier in the current market. While typical welcome offers in states like Arizona or Colorado cap out at $150, Missouri bettors activating the Bet365 bonus code today today gain access to an additional $215 in guaranteed value. This $365 payout stands as one of the most robust bankroll-builders available in the U.S. sports betting landscape.
Bet365 Bonus Code SYRACUSE: A New National Benchmark
The timing of this promotion is ideal for a Wednesday night featuring the 68 Ventures Bowl and a competitive NBA doubleheader. The Bet365 bonus code structure is designed for maximum flexibility. Unlike complicated “second chance” rebates that require a loss to trigger, the Bet365 bonus code SYRACUSE delivers the $365 payout simply for placing a qualifying wager, regardless of the game’s final score.
Key Deal Terms:
- Bonus Code: SYRACUSE
- Offer: Bet $10, Get $365 in Bonus Bets (Guaranteed).
- Value Differential: +$215 compared to national averages.
- Eligibility: New Missouri users only.
Today’s Top Betting Event: 68 Ventures Bowl
The Bet365 bonus code is live just in time for tonight’s college football showdown in Mobile, Alabama. Missouri bettors can use their qualifying $10 wager on Louisiana-Lafayette or Delaware to trigger the $365 bonus before checking out the NBA matchups.
Louisiana-Lafayette vs. Delaware: Detailed Breakdown
- Teams: Louisiana-Lafayette vs. Delaware
- Date: Wednesday, December 17, 2025
- Time: 8:30 PM ET
- Venue: Hancock Whitney Stadium, Mobile, AL
Current Betting Odds
- Spread: Louisiana-Lafayette favored at -3
- Total (Over/Under): 61.5
- Moneyline Odds: Louisiana-Lafayette -146, Delaware +125
Note: Odds are subject to change.
By using the Bet365 bonus code to place a $10 wager on the Ragin’ Cajuns to cover (-3) or the underdog Blue Hens (+125), new users will secure $365 in bonus bets to use on the schedule listed below.
Full Wednesday Schedule:
Once the Bet365 bonus code is activated, bettors can use their bonus funds on the 68 Ventures Bowl or the following NBA games taking place tonight:
- 8:00 PM ET: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Chicago Bulls (United Center)
- 8:00 PM ET: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (Target Center)
- 8:30 PM ET: Louisiana-Lafayette vs. Delaware (Hancock Whitney Stadium)
How to Activate the Bet365 Bonus Code SYRACUSE:

Claiming the elevated launch offer is straightforward, but requires the correct code during registration. Follow these instructions:
- Application: Input the Bet365 bonus code SYRACUSE in the designated field while creating your account on the Missouri app or site.
- Deposit: Fund the account with a minimum of $10.
- Qualifying Wager: Place a $10 bet on the 68 Ventures Bowl tonight, or any NBA market.
- Distribution: The Bet365 bonus code automatically releases $365 in bonus bets to your balance once the wager settles.
Conclusion: A Winning Wednesday for Bet365 Missouri!
Bet365 Missouri is setting a new benchmark for new user value. By deploying the Bet365 bonus code SYRACUSE during this action-packed week of Bowl Games and basketball, sports fans can lock in a premium $365 bonus, ensuring they have ample ammunition to tackle every snap of the college football postseason and every quarter of NBA action.
GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. 21+ only. Must be physically located in MO. T&Cs Apply. In App Only.
If you or a loved one has questions or needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net for more information.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
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