LeVota Reverses, Files for Jackson County Executive

0:00Phil LaVota, the interim Jackson County executive in Missouri, just reversed his promise not to run for a full term. He filed his candidacy right before the 5 p.m. deadline on Tuesday for the 2026 election. Back in October, voters recalled former executive Frank White Jr. and LaVota stepped in his interim. He vowed then to just finish the term without seeking for more years. But now he says circumstances shifted and he wants voters to pick. Lee Summon Mayor Bill Baird, another candidate, called a disappointing. He stressed that trust is key in public service and questioned LaVota's integrity for changing his mind. LaVota hinted at this shift days earlier, especially after sharing his plans for the Truman Sports Complex. He's one of seven Democrats in the August primary, facing just one Republican. Voters in Jackson County now get to weigh in on whether LaVota stays or steps aside for fresh leadership. That's your update from Kansas News today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story.