Curtis Trent

Lori Rook, a Springfield attorney, challenges state Sen. Curtis Trent in the Missouri Senate District 20 GOP primary. Trent seeks reelection and a leadership role as majority floor leader, while Rook leverages campaign experience and a team previously involved in GOP primary upsets. The race’s outcome could influence Missouri Senate leadership and legislative priorities in 2027.

Gambling company J&J Ventures donated $200,000 to three political action committees supporting a Missouri bill to allow video lottery terminals. The funds went to PACs aligned with state Sen. Jason Bean, Sen. Curtis Trent, and Rep. Bill Hardwick, who are key legislators backing the proposal. J&J Ventures, the second-largest U.S. retail gambling terminal operator, has contributed over $3.5 million to Missouri campaigns since 2015.

A Missouri bill authorizing gas station slot machines, sponsored by Rep. Bill Hardwick, faces Senate resistance but could gain traction depending on GOP primary outcomes in three key districts. The 8th, 16th, and 20th districts feature candidates with opposing views on gambling expansion, with some receiving significant donations from gambling interests.