Gregory Upchurch

Gregory Upchurch was born in St. Charles, Missouri. He earned a high school diploma from St. Charles West High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from Missouri State University in 1992 and a graduate degree from Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, in 2001. His professional experience includes being a venue owner. He has been a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon and the Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce.[1][2]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

1. I will be YOUR fiscal watchdog in Missouri. I hold a Master's Degree in Public Administration and have owned my current business (where I support other candidates) for 16 years. I possess the required skills!

In this job, I will work for YOU! I will not back-down from the current administration, nor will I ignore whistleblower complaints. I will pursue anyone who wastes or misuses taxpayer dollars and won't think twice. It doesn't matter who you are, I will protect taxpayer money. THIS is the main reason I am running for Missouri State Auditor, for a better MO!

2. I am a leader! I am ready to lead these new candidates into the most substantial election of the last 100 years in Missouri. There is a Democrat candidate in every MO House seat in the state, and they need someone they respect at the top of the ticket to LEAD. I am the one they seek. I hear it everywhere I go throughout Missouri! I have hired and managed labor for over 30 years. People want to work for me because I am fair, honest and treat people with a mutual respect. This is how I will run the Auditor's office.

3. Sunshine Laws - I am a person who believes everyone should know what is going on with their government. One of the easiest ways is to follow the money. As the Auditor, I will have the opportunity to "open books/ledgers" to let the taxpayers of the Great State of Missouri see where their money goes. YOU will be as informed as me, when elected.

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?

Honesty and Integrity. The Missouri Auditor is a watchdog for all MIssourians. I believe it important to hire/elect someone who will do the right thing, even when no one is looking. I am this person. You can simply look at the operation of my business to understand the amount of respect I command, as this is the same amount of respect I extend toward others.

I will make myself available to listen to individuals and work to establish fairness within the state government. I promote this about myself, because I feel it to be necessary and true. Everyone deserves to know the truth and exactly where their tax dollars are being spent. I will show you the respect you deserve AND where your money goes.ALL Missourians are members of a ideology called the "Show-Me-State". We are skeptical. We want to know and see for ourselves. We should always be asking questions about the workings of our government. Shouldn't you know what is happening with our financial responsibilities around the state? I think you should. I will lead the Auditor's office to promote awareness and supply information to those who seek.

As the leader of the office, I will set policies that make it easier for the public to access financial information. We could potentially have six million eyes working out our mutual problems. I represent honesty, integrity and open books for all! This is my pledge to YOU - transparency!I want everyone in Missouri to know exactly where their tax dollars are spent and HOW they are spent. My plan is to go into the dark places and shine a light on fiscal activities. We have institutions that are "off limits" currently to audit, but they use taxpayer money to finance part of their operations. I find this to be egregious and what to expose those organizations for what they are.

Yes, I am talking about "Charter School". These statewide entities take tax dollars, but they have zero reporting requirements. We DO NOT ALLOW this with any other organization in Missouri. I am ready for this fight, as all taxpayer money should be able to be scrutinized by EVERY Missouri taxpayer. Upchurch4MO

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about all areas of public policy as my Master's Degree is in Public Administration. The direct correlation has driven me for years. I also took Calculus in high school, so numbers have always been my friend.

Since most policy usually has a fiscal component, the Misouri State Auditor position makes a great deal of sense to me. Following the money trail is one of the most important jobs we can do when fighting corruption. I will follow! I will also tell you what I find.

There are many statewide policies that I cherish, but I will only be responsible for the policies of the Auditor's office. These policies will include pursuing anyone who chooses to misuse taxpayer money - ANYONE!

What responsibilities of this office do you personally consider the most important?

The watchdog role is the most important role of the office of the Auditor. This action includes showing the taxpayers what is found.

Past posts can be found at #Missouriisforeveryone

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

I have received endorsements from many organizations as this is not my first election. I was endorsed by many labor organization and Tri-County Labor gave me money. Labor knows I am with them. The others including the Sierra Club, Mom's demand and many other local organizations. I have used my venue to host groups such as Jobs for Justice, Abortion Action MO, People Not Politicians, Missouri Right to Education, Respect MO voters, Do Something STL, Women's Voices, Missouri Action Alliance, Be Heard Missouri NAACP, St. Charles County Democratic Party, MOVPC, Promo, League of Women Voters, National Women's Political Caucus and the St. Charles Election Authority.

I've also hosted candidates Bethany Mann and Cat Clayton.

Campaign websiteUpchurch's campaign website stated the following:Values You Believe InYou need a Missouri State Auditor who will monitor tax spending and fight for your community.Education & Healthcare is where it starts! The PlatformServing The CommunityI am a small business owner.I have hosted many weddings and events that have brought a great deal of joy to Missouri families.  I will, as your Missouri State Auditor, bring transparency to you and your family.  I will work for you, as I have worked for the many people who have walked through my door and have asked for my help.  The business world has taught me to listen to those who seek information and to provide what they desire.  Being your State Auditor, means I work for you.This is what politics should be!United By A Common GoalHealthcare needs a boost in MO and across this great nation.  I want to expand Medicaid/Medicare to cover everyone in Missouri and the United States, RIGHT NOW!I want equal rights for ALL Missourians/Americans regardless of gender, ability, age, ethnicity or sexual orientation.I want to fight for the working class, those who literally make this country great.  The attacks on our laborers must stop!I believe we need more teachers, who are better qualified to handle the struggles within society today.  We need better salaries, better support, smaller class rooms and a return to the societal respect that teachers once held within the borders of this great country.I also want to protect this beautiful country from greed and put our farmers back at the top of the food chain, where they belong.— Gregory Upchurch's campaign website (July 6, 2026)Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Born in St. Charles Missouri and a true local!

Healthcare is our greatest threat to the safety of all Missouri residents, and I think everyone should be universally covered. Medicaid expansion is essential! We just gave away trillions of dollars, in the last election, that would have easily funded this all-inclusive program.

I hold a master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA) and believe early education is attainable, governmental transparency is a must and happiness an essential part of life. My teaching experience includes: College faculty, K-12 and English internationally. Extensive educated travel has developed my acceptance of people and drives my compassion toward others.

Labor builds this country, while transportation provides for workers and goods to get to market. I have executive board housing experience for MSU/MO ETA and understand that affordable housing shortages means families go without. I would like to explore building code legislation, subsidies, and tax breaks for those who build handicap into new construction and cater to housing issues for our elder society.

I am on my eighteenth year of owning my own business. I have done a great deal of national and international travel. I owned and operated a domestic transportation business and I now own a banquet center.

Personally, I would like to increase voter access and have election day as a national holiday! I want mail-in ballots as well as cell phone voting. #missouriisforeveryone

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?

Healthcare is a MUST!Education is a Right!If we do not take care of the environment, then the environment will take care of us!

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Healthcare and voting rights!

These are two issues we voted on, as Missourians, and our legislature fails to implement our wishes. WE THE PEOPLE have spoken and I hink it is about time we are heard. I want to implement the things thay WE have already agreed to adopt.

I have additional blog thoughts: Upchurch4MO.com

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I think my grandmother was a true inspiration, who taught us about diversity and acceptance at a very yound age! We are all the same people and each deserves respect. Everyone has a unique background and set of principle upon which they were raised. Each person has a unique voice and perspective. Her favorite saying, "We are all the same, in the eyes of the lord".

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

I write blogs on my website, www.Upchurch4MO.com, if you want to know where I stand.

missouriisforeveryone

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

Honesty and integrity are the most important qualities a politician can have. After all, you are being hired by your constituents to do a job for them. I believe it important that they can trust you to do the job they hired you to perform. I like to be able to trust my employees and would think I were expected to do the same by those who chose me to do their bidding in Jefferson City. Honesty, integrity and sincerity are key.

Responsibility is another characteristic I find appealing in an elected official. The responsibility to be present and respond to inquiries are essential. I think it important to be in session, when session is meeting, and to vote accordingly. Being responsible to those who chose you to elect, is a successful notion I wish more politicians accepted.

Being humble never hurt anyone!

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am an educated local who knows a great deal about the families and experiences in my district. I have grown up with many of these families who have remained in the same residences throughout our lives. I understand the wants and needs of the citizens of House district 104 and believe I could represent their interests better than anyone else in this race. I have the ability to reach across the aisle and get people talking about what they want and expect their government to be. I appeal to both sides of the political spectrum, because I am friends with people from both sides of the political aisle and understand that everyone has an opinion. Many of the opinions overlap in different ways and I am good about finding the middle ground and keeping the conversation alive and civil. I can command a room when necessary, but prefer to listen and find commonality. Everyone has a voice and I believe I would be a good collective voice for the 104th House district of Missouri.

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

A core responsibility of this office is to be cognizant of those who elected you and what they want you to do. Being a representative of my constituents and a voice for my districts choices are the true responsibilities I pledge to uphold. Being willing to listen to those around you, while standing strong for those who elected you is monumental. I believe I am there to listen, represent and serve!

I know I will have the ability to introduce legislation, wanted by those of my district. I will also be there to fight or reject legislation, which is opposed by those who hired me. The key is to represent, and be open to, an integral method of doing the will of the people.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event I remember was my grandmother winning "Illinois Mother of the Year" in 1971 and sitting on top of a float of roses, in the parade down the Main Street of her home town. I think I was three. It was a big celebration.

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

Shoveling snow and mowing lawns were my first attempts to make money. I am not sure I have ever stopped doing these things.

My first job, I persued on my own as an adult, was as a commercial fisherman in Alaska. I held the position for eight seasons., with six seasons as the vessel engineer. My first season, I actually hitchhiked about 1000 miles through Canada to get there and lived in a tent for a month. I am not scared of much.

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

The Governor is another branch, in the system of balance within Missouri politics. The Governor has a vision of how they would like to see the states operate. The Governor gets to set a policy that the office procresses toward and the legislature can either accept of reject it. In some instances, the legislature is a direct arm of the Governor, especially if they agree on the same policies. In other instances, the Governor is a balance check to a legislature with different beliefs. A strong legislature can override a Governor, whereas a weak one can only observe the outcome. Each has its own place in the workings of our governments overall productivity and I think our government works best when all three branches are having robust conversations about the direction the citizens want them to progress. Every elected official is there to represent the citizens who put them there and should respect their overall wishes. I do like the check and balance effect between the Governor and the state legislators and believe the "will of the people" will be heard. #missouriisforeveryone

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Healthcare! This country and state are sharply divided between what we think we desrve with healthcare and what we are willing to give, to extend healthcare to every citizen within the state. We voted in favor of Medicare expansion, yet the current state legislature is standing in the way of what the people overwhelmingly voted to implement. I think it is going to take a huge shift in the demographics of the legislature to get these agreed upon programs implemented. It will take time to make a definite shift toward the implementation of healthcare in Missouri due to the election process and length of time between elections. We must first change representatives before we can change policy. I think this should be a wake-up call to all Missourians, especially those who voted and were not heard. I believe that is about 70% who were completely ignored by our current representatives. Make that change!

What are the benefits and drawbacks of a unicameral state legislature, in your opinion?

The benefits of a unicameral legislature could mean for a swift passage of legislation. I see this as the greatest benefit. I also see this as the greatest problem. The bicameral system allows for more robust discussions and compromise. The more we debate an issue, the more clear the expectations of implementation and fairness. I prefer we keep two chambers of legislature.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

I do believe it is necessary to have some exposure, whether through education or worldly experience. I do not believe it is absolutely necessary, but any experience seems to be better than no experience at all. With this being said, you are there to represent the population of citizens in your jurisdiction and should be there to express the wishes of your constituents as opposed to your own. Being in office gives you an opportunity to have your decisions on recored, for all to see. I think, if you are trusted by those who elect you, then your ability to do their bidding comes with their trust. This is a position of morality and doing the right thing. Elections have consequences and it is important to have a representative you can trust, especially a home grown candidate who has a passion for their community.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

We MUST be talking to each other. I have personal and professional relationship with candidates from both sides of the aisle and thing we should be talking about our diffferences and similarities. I think we have more in common than we have differences. Everyone wants to go straight to the differences rather than solve the obvious problems that everyday Missourians face. We need roads and clean drinking water (99% agree). Everyone wants their children to be safe, (100%) everyone! There are many quality of life things we can be accomplishing if we simply communicate with each other about the things we agree upon and focus on each others needs. We can do this, as caring and communicative people. We need each other to make this collectively work.

What process do you favor for redistricting?

Rivers and state borders with no more than three staright lines connecting. Follow this pattern all across the state and we will have easy to understand voting regions. Up to three staright line ONLY. Rivers and state border lines can be used, but don"t count as up to three straight lines. Print out a Missouri State map and try it yourself!

I know this sounds very simplistic, but it will stop a great deal of gerrymandering and arguemnets, especially during the time of redistricting. Drawing the maps should be for the convenience of voting and the citizens, as opposed to creating strong zones for each side. Election integrity should not be in question, especially with todays technology.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Healthcare, Education and the environment.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I believe we are all individuals and will each act independently of the other. I do not believe it is my place to interpret and mimic another, but to be unique and genuine to those who chose to vote me into office as their representative. I think everyone should express their opinion and elect a representative who is reflective of themselves. I also think I should be myself, but as a mirror of my constituency.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

I like to accomplish one thing at a time and assess situations as they arise. If a need arises, then I will listen and respond appropriately. This house seat is something I have been persuing for a while now and am looking forward to being there, for those who put me there. If those who put me there decide I should move, then I will consider it. I personally think it will be a great honor to represent the citizens of the 104th district and look forward to being a member of the Missouri House of Representatives.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I keep getting the same thing over and over. I usually consists of potential votes thanking me for "putting myself out there" and giving them a choice at the ballot box. I am finding that people want to voice their opinions and have decided that this is the year to do it and the ballot box is the place. I am finding a great deal of anxious people who are ready for change. Also, I like swapping stories as I am a local who can relate to their upbringing and standards. I personally know a great deal of people in my district, from our many years in the same community.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

This is a really broad question that I think I will reply about when there is a specific decision to debate. It depends on the emergency and the power given. I find this to be a case-by-case basis.

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

I am one of those individuals who can not understand why we have trouble speaking to each other. There are many things we agree about and should get done, before we start debating the things on which we don't agree. Majority rules, so we should discuss what the majority wants and get it implemented. We have to get past the divide and start working together toward the common goals of citizens. The process of coming together, for a civilized debate, has eluded us and we must get back to open and respectful dialogue. If we can achieve open communication, then we can have a unity that is acceptable to the majority of Missouri citizens. WE can do this, together! #missouriisforeveryone

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I believe we have to protect all the citizens of Missouri with quality and affordable healthcare. Healthcare effects everyone in the state and we are removing our children from our state programs in record numbers. Seniors are taking a hit and many are being purged from healthcare protections as well. Young women are leaving our Missouri borders, to have their babies in states that are willing to provide quality healthcare and assistance. The result, of this action, is an aging population in the great state of Missouri. This is having a disturbing effect on the number of available workers who could enter the workforce. We are running out of skilled trade workers and by discouraging young women to have their children in Missouri, it is only making the problem worse. This trend has a negative effect on our ability to attract manufacturers, due to the lack of available workforce participants and a healthy workforce overall. We are also experiencing an assault on the healthcare of our middle-class as healthcare costs rise to working families. Many Missourians have lost their homes, to bankruptcy, as a result of our atrocious healthcare policies and this has a negative effect on our ability to individually spend. Spending, other than healthcare spending, is what keeps the economy of Missouri moving forward. Therefore, quality healthcare equals prosperity for Missouri as a whole.

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?

HealthcareEducationGovernment Accountability

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My friends call me Greg and I am currently a business owner in St. Charles, Missouri. I was born and raised in St, Charles, but have traveled to many places around the United States and the world. I am a previous owner and operator in the transportation industry, so I understand the importance of having and maintaining our current infrastructure of roads and bridges. I have worked as a commercial fisherman in Alaska and believe we need to protect the environment at all costs, because Missouri is a beautiful state. I have worked as a laborer and think we need to protect the ever eroding middle class. I have taught in the public school system, in college and in foreign countries and believe all people should have access to a quality and affordable education. I hold a Masters degree in Public Administration, but also understand the need for trade schools and apprenticeships. I think politicians should work for those they represent and do what is right for the citizens who elected them. I also think we, the people, should have transparency within our government and access to information. I want quality and affordable healthcare for all, with specific protections for our children and elderly citizens. Finally, I believe we are all equal and that no one is above the law.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

The Missouri Lieutenant Governor is the only statewide elected official that is part of both the executive and legislative branches of state government. I think this makes the position quite unique from other elected positions within the state of Missouri. It is written, in the state constitution, that the lieutenant governor is ex officio president of the Missouri Senate. Also, the Missouri Lieutenant Governor is elected independently from the Missouri Governor and each can be members of different political parties. Being of different parties allows alternate perspectives to be shared within the executive branch and alternative ideas to possibly flourish.

The various other duties of the office provide for more responsibilities, especially relating to veterans, seniors, tourism and economic development. These additional duties make the lieutenant governor more visible and accessible to many more Missourians than it does other politicians. The many boards and commissions on which the lieutenant governor, serves provide numerous opportunities to help additional Missouri citizens, both young and old. These boards and commissions cover a wide variety of functions for Missouri's diverse population.

Additionally, military veterans exemplify the meaning of service, as they have sacrificed and answered the call of duty. They boldly faced death, injury and uncertainty and the lieutenant governor position allows for greater access and the opportunity for glorifying recognition. The range and scope of the position is enormous and it is imperative that the right individual be chosen to perform the necessary tasks.

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

I believe honesty, integrity and openness are the qualities voters should seek in the representatives they choose. I started with honesty, because I believe it to be the most important. I think those who are elected should be able to stand in front of their constituents and be able to tell them the truth about their intentions. We, too often, see our politicians say one thing and then turn around and do another. I find this especially appalling when promises are made before an election, simply to be tossed aside after being elected to public office. Our elected officials are there to work for and represent us!

A great deal of the principles that are held within the concept of honesty are essential to the concept of integrity, yet integrity includes much more. Integrity can be defined as being whloe ond/or undevided. Being able to tell someone honestly what you are doing or plan to do is much different that having an overall strategy or plan that moves in a progressive direction to help those you represent. Integrity states that an individual will strive to do their best, no matter the obsticle or situation that