Missouri

Missouri lawmakers are going after voter-approved abortion rights. Voters will likely reelect them

Published

1 year ago

January 19, 2025

Missouri lawmakers are going after voter-approved abortion rights. Voters will likely reelect them

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Voters in Missouri last election approved a constitutional amendment that promised to undo the state’s near-total abortion ban. The same day, they reelected a Republican supermajority to the state Legislature, including several of the same lawmakers who passed the abortion ban in 2019.

Now, GOP lawmakers are working to roll back some, if not all, of the abortion rights protected under the new amendment.

“Time and time again, the supermajority will spend taxpayer money on trying to undo the will of the voters,” said Missouri Democratic Rep. Emily Weber, who has been filing abortion-rights legislation for the past four years.

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Some Republicans have said enacting restrictions under the measure still adheres to voters’ wishes.

“I haven’t heard anyone seriously discuss taking away the rape and incest exception,” Republican House Speaker Jonathan Patterson said. “To regulate it as the amendment asks us to do, I think it’s an appropriate thing to do.”

Any changes to directly undo the amendment passed by voters would need to go back on the ballot, he said.

Republicans likely won’t face any pushback at the polls for once again going after abortion and could benefit politically in conservative states like Missouri, experts said.

Lawmakers from rural GOP strongholds have backing from their constituents to pursue such legislation and also face pressure to take a strong stand against abortion in order to survive primaries, said Mary Ziegler, a historian at the University of California, Davis, School of Law who studies abortion.

“If you are a legislator from a conservative district in Missouri, you feel absolutely no threat from Democrats and you feel a considerable threat potentially from your right if you aren’t conservative enough on abortion,” Ziegler said.

The seemingly contradictory dynamic between the abortion policies voters support and the candidates they elect is not unique to Missouri.

Ohio voters added a right to abortion to their state’s constitution in November 2023, overriding a ban on abortions after cardiac activity is detected, about six weeks into pregnancy and before many women know they’re pregnant.

Abortion rights advocates sued to have the ban invalidated, and the state’s Republican attorney general pushed back, seeking to keep elements of the 2019 law, including a parental notification provision and a requirement that people seeking an abortion make two in-person visits to their provider, wait 24 hours for the procedure and have their abortion recorded and reported.

It took until October 2024 for a court to strike down the ban, though enforcement had previously been on hold.

In Arizona, where voters also approved a right to abortion in 2024, health care providers have asked a court to strike down a previous ban on abortion after the first 15 weeks of pregnancy, with limited exceptions. There, Attorney General Kris Mayes, a Democrat, has filed court papers saying she won’t enforce the old ban until after the lawsuit to invalidate it is resolved.

Proposed laws in Missouri would outlaw abortion completely, only allow it in cases of medical emergencies, ban most abortions once cardiac activity is detected or ban it after fetal viability.

Republicans say there is room to act without violating the abortion-rights amendment, which allows lawmakers to enact restrictions after viability except when necessary to “protect the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant person.” Patterson and others see a need for legislation that would define terms in the amendment, such as viability.

Viability is a term used by health care providers to describe whether a pregnancy is expected to continue developing normally or whether a fetus might survive outside the uterus. Though there’s no defined time frame, doctors say it is sometime after the 21st week of pregnancy.

Republican state Rep. Brian Seitz said the “political reality” is that most Missouri voters likely would not vote for an amendment in line with his belief that life begins at conception. But Seitz also said he thinks many voters approved last year’s ballot measure because it was the only way to allow abortion access for cases of rape, incest and medical emergencies. And he said there is support among voters for some restrictions beyond that.

“We can chip away at Amendment 3,” Seitz said. “I don’t think repeal is what’s going to happen in the short term.”

A total repeal would need voter approval.

University of Central Missouri political scientist Robynn Kuhlmann said a lack of competition between Democrats and Republicans insulates lawmakers from backlash at the polls.

In Missouri, Kuhlmann estimated that roughly 95% of House seats were won by at least a 5% margin in 2024.

And for more and more voters, she said “party seems to be taking precedence regardless of what actions have been occurring in the legislative arena.”

“What may only matter at that point in time for the voter is whether or not there’s an R or a D behind the candidates’ names,” Kuhlmann said.

Missouri’s abortion-rights amendment passed by a narrow margin — with close to 51% of the vote. Most support came from Kansas City, St. Louis, the college town of Columbia and surrounding areas.

But counties throughout the rest of the state, particularly in rural areas, voted against the measure.

Seitz, who is from the southwestern Missouri tourist destination of Branson, said people from his district, as well as his conscience, “declares that I should be doing something as an elected representative to promote life.”

___

Associated Press writer Geoff Mulvihill contributed to this report from Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

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Missouri

Missouri Lottery Powerball, Pick 3 winning numbers for March 2, 2026

Published

8 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Press Room

The Missouri Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big.

Here’s a look at March 2, 2026, results for each game:

Winning Powerball numbers from March 2 drawing

02-17-18-38-62, Powerball: 20, Power Play: 2

Check Powerball payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Pick 3 numbers from March 2 drawing

Midday: 3-3-4

Midday Wild: 2

Evening: 4-8-9

Evening Wild: 7

Check Pick 3 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Pick 4 numbers from March 2 drawing

Midday: 6-4-2-2

Midday Wild: 5

Evening: 2-8-2-4

Evening Wild: 1

Check Pick 4 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Cash Pop numbers from March 2 drawing

Early Bird: 08

Morning: 12

Matinee: 05

Prime Time: 04

Night Owl: 02

Check Cash Pop payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Show Me Cash numbers from March 2 drawing

13-17-18-23-28

Check Show Me Cash payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Powerball Double Play numbers from March 2 drawing

21-28-58-65-67, Powerball: 25

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.

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Missouri

Top 25 Missouri Girls High School Basketball Rankings – March 2, 2026

Published

20 hours ago

March 2, 2026

Press Room

The Missouri girls basketball postseason has arrived, and everything changes from this point forward. The regular season provided clarity on contenders, exposed weaknesses, and built résumés—but none of that guarantees anything in March.

District championships are being claimed, rotations are tightening, and every possession now carries real consequence. Depth matters more. Experience matters more. Discipline matters more. Some teams enter the bracket playing their best basketball of the year, while others are still searching for consistency at the most critical time.

Momentum, health, and matchups will ultimately decide who survives and who goes home. These rankings reflect not only what has been accomplished, but who looks built to handle the pressure that defines this stretch of the season.

Here’s the updated Missouri Girls Top 25.

Previous Rank: 1

This is the time of year when Incarnate Word’s dynasty takes center stage. The Red Knights haven’t lost a playoff game in nearly a decade, an astonishing run that stands as one of the most impressive feats in Missouri high school girls basketball history.

Previous Rank: 3

Staley moves back into the No. 2 spot after a strong final week of the regular season. The Falcons check every box. They’re one of the most talented and deepest Class 6 teams Missouri has seen in recent years.

Previous Rank: 2

The Chiefs opened the season 25-0 before suffering their first loss to Liberty North. That defeat could serve as valuable motivation heading into the postseason. This group still has the look of a serious contender.

Previous Rank: 4

Principia coasted through its first two playoff games. The Panthers are getting meaningful bench production while allowing starters to rest. That balance could pay dividends in the later rounds.

Previous Rank: 5

Wins over Glendale and West Plains keep an outstanding season rolling. Strafford is the clear favorite in Class 4. This playoff stretch could be their most significant since the 2020 championship run.

Previous Rank: 6

Jackson hasn’t played a close game in nearly a month. The Indians are eager for tougher competition in the Class 6 bracket and have the pieces to make a run to the state tournament.

Previous Rank: 7

A loss to Staley was followed by a strong bounce-back win over Liberty North. That stretch should serve as an ideal playoff tune-up. The Titans have the roster and ceiling to compete with anyone.

Previous Rank: 8

Wins over Troy Buchanan and Helias closed the regular season on a high note. It’s been a year of ups and downs, but the Bruins are defending well and playing their best basketball entering the postseason.

Previous Rank: 9

A win over Carl Junction capped off a successful regular season. Marshfield appears poised to make a deep playoff run.

Previous Rank: 10

A 78-54 win over Kennett showcased this team’s depth from top to bottom. The Donnettes are largely unchallenged in their region and are looking to repeat as state champions.

Previous Rank: 11

Centralia allowed just 61 combined points in its first two playoff games. That level of defense will make them a difficult out. Dixon (22-6) awaits on Monday night.

Previous Rank: 21

A 78-66 win over Kickapoo sparked a significant jump in the rankings. That victory confirmed the ceiling many believed this team had. Freshman Taytum Schnakenburg led the way with 25 points.

Previous Rank: 12

Tipton made its first two playoff games look routine. The Class 2 favorite is set to face Westran (21-8) on Monday night.

Previous Rank: 13

Closing the regular season with a win over Bolivar should provide confidence. In an interesting twist, they’ll face Bolivar again in the opening round of districts.

Previous Rank: 14

This ranking could be misleading. The Cougars have a high ceiling, with many losses coming against elite competition. The challenge is sharing a district with Incarnate Word.

Previous Rank: 16

Wins over Oak Park and North Kansas City were key to closing out the regular season. This playoff run marks the final chapter of Addison Bjorn’s standout prep career.

Previous Rank: 17

Republic’s season has been a steady climb. They’ve maintained consistency and look capable of winning multiple playoff games. The journey begins against Waynesville on Monday night.

Previous Rank: 18

Getting Lauren Ortwerth back makes a major difference. The senior forward scored 30 points in the regular-season finale. Cor Jesu is a co-favorite with Jackson in its district and has a track record of winning in big moments.

Previous Rank: 20

Wins over Oakville and Webster Groves wrapped up a strong regular season. Sophomore guard Bailey Owen scored 27 points in the finale, highlighting the Mustangs’ offensive firepower.

Previous Rank: 15

A 48-44 loss to St. Teresa’s Academy ended an 11-game winning streak. The Cardinals will look to respond and begin a Class 4 playoff push on Wednesday night.

Previous Rank: 19

A dominant 46-20 win over Savannah (21-5) showed this team can overwhelm quality Class 4 opponents. The Fighting Irish have been consistent all season.

Previous Rank: 22

A 64-58 loss to Strafford reflects the story of West Plains’ season. Despite more losses than most ranked teams, each defeat has come against quality competition. They can compete with anyone but must close games to make a deep run.

Previous Rank: 23

A competitive loss to Rock Bridge won’t shift their standing. This group continues to win games and compete at a high level. Fort Zumwalt West awaits in the playoff opener Monday night.

Previous Rank: Not ranked

The Hawks make their first appearance in the rankings late in the season. At 27-1—and undefeated within Missouri—they look capable of challenging for the Class 2 state championship.

Previous Rank: Not ranked

Liberty has battled all season long. A recent win over Oak Park propelled the Blue Jays into the rankings as the two teams swap places on the edge of the Top 25.

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Missouri

Missouri Lottery Pick 3, Pick 4 winning numbers for March 1, 2026

Published

1 day ago

March 2, 2026

Press Room

The Missouri Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big.

Here’s a look at March 1, 2026, results for each game:

Winning Pick 3 numbers from March 1 drawing

Midday: 0-6-1

Midday Wild: 3

Evening: 3-1-3

Evening Wild: 7

Check Pick 3 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Pick 4 numbers from March 1 drawing

Midday: 4-0-5-8

Midday Wild: 3

Evening: 8-8-4-7

Evening Wild: 3

Check Pick 4 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Cash Pop numbers from March 1 drawing

Early Bird: 14

Morning: 07

Matinee: 13

Prime Time: 12

Night Owl: 03

Check Cash Pop payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Show Me Cash numbers from March 1 drawing

05-16-23-29-34

Check Show Me Cash 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

Ticket Redemption

Missouri Lottery

P.O. Box 7777

Jefferson City, MO 65102-7777

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.

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