Ashley Drury

Ashley Drury earned a high school diploma from Pattonville High School and a graduate degree from Lindenwood University.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m a sixth-generation Missourian and have proudly called Jefferson County home since 2018. I’m a mom of two boys, married to a Navy veteran, and I work as a substitute teacher.

I’m running for office because I care about our community and the future of Jefferson County. I want to ensure our children have strong, well-funded schools, fight for good-paying jobs, and bring down the rising cost of everyday essentials.

I believe government should work for us, and that the will of the voters must be respected in Jefferson City. I would be honored to be a voice for my neighbors.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Strong Public Schools Mean Strong Communities

Well-funded public schools are the foundation of a stable, thriving community. Our kids are the future and this matters to everyone, not just parents. Strong schools lead to better jobs, lower unemployment, population growth, and more resources for our community. Investing in education is investing in Jefferson County’s future.Lower Costs, Better Pay

Everyday costs are too high - groceries, gas, utilities -everything is going up, but wages aren’t keeping up. Families are being squeezed. We need to fight for a true living wage and take real steps to stabilize the cost of the essentials people rely on every day.Government That Works for You

Our government should work for us - not the other way around. The voices of voters deserve to be heard and respected in Jefferson City. It’s time to bring transparency, accountability, and ethics back to state government so people can trust their leaders.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m passionate about fully funding our public schools, restoring transparency and ethics in government, and ensuring the will of the voters is respected. As a working parent, I care about lowering everyday costs while fighting for a living wage for workers, and I also support expanding access to mental health care and healthcare services to underserved communities including our more rural areas, women, children, and veterans.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty, Integrity, Common Sense, Approachability, Adaptability, Willingness to learn

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Listening and being aware of the needs and wants of the community and finding ways to bring those items to the legislature to be addressed

What legacy would you like to leave?

I want my kids to be proud of me. I hope that I am able to set the example that you don't have to accept things that you don't agree with, that every person has the power and the voice to stand up and ask questions and advocate for what they believe in, even if it is hard.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was Big Lots, the retail store, while I was in high school. I worked there for several years.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I was a single mother to my son when he was an infant. He was born when I was in college full time and also working full time. I am incredibly lucky to have a strong support system, but it was absolutely a struggle to provide for us. I remember dealing with Medicaid and SNAP challenges and feeling like I was failing as a parent. I am so thankful to my family for being there for us through those difficult times!

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

There should be a collaborative relationship and there should be, ideally, common goals between the two.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

I believe that compromise and working together is necessary, however, a person should not compromise their morals or integrity in the process.

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

The first historical event that I remember is 9/11 - I remember I was in 8th grade in computer class. We had TVs on all day in every class. I remember many parents came to pick up their kids. It was scary not knowing what would happen next.