Joey LaSalle

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Joey LaSalle
Image of Joey LaSalle
Elections and appointments
Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

High school

Excelsior Springs High School

Bachelor's

University of Missouri, Columbia, 2000

Personal
Birthplace
North Kansas City, Mo.
Religion
Christian
Profession
owner
Contact

Joey LaSalle (Republican Party) ran for election to the Missouri State Senate to represent District 7. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

LaSalle completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Joey LaSalle was born in North Kansas City, Missouri. He earned a high school diploma from Excelsior Springs High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia in 2000. His career experience includes working as a owner.[1]

Elections

2024

See also: Missouri State Senate elections, 2024

General election

General election for Missouri State Senate District 7

Patty Lewis defeated Joey LaSalle in the general election for Missouri State Senate District 7 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Patty Lewis
Patty Lewis (D) Candidate Connection
 
74.5
 
58,149
Image of Joey LaSalle
Joey LaSalle (R) Candidate Connection
 
25.5
 
19,939

Total votes: 78,088
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Missouri State Senate District 7

Patty Lewis defeated Pat Contreras in the Democratic primary for Missouri State Senate District 7 on August 6, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Patty Lewis
Patty Lewis Candidate Connection
 
67.0
 
14,970
Image of Pat Contreras
Pat Contreras
 
33.0
 
7,361

Total votes: 22,331
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Missouri State Senate District 7

Joey LaSalle advanced from the Republican primary for Missouri State Senate District 7 on August 6, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Joey LaSalle
Joey LaSalle Candidate Connection
 
100.0
 
4,326

Total votes: 4,326
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for LaSalle in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Joey LaSalle completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by LaSalle's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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I’m Joey LaSalle, a proud resident of District 7, running for the Missouri State Senate because I’ve had enough of empty promises from our representatives.

Growing up in Excelsior Springs, I learned the values of hard work and community support from my mom, a teacher, and my dad, a physician and small business owner. I graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Missouri with degrees in Finance and Real Estate.

At Cerner Corporation, I spent over 20 years managing hundreds of people and multi-million and multi-billion-dollar projects. This experience honed my leadership and problem-solving skills.

Now, as a small business owner, I deal with the complexities of payroll, budgets, and taxes every day. I understand firsthand the impact of high taxes and earning a livable wage. Most of the time not receiving a paycheck.

As a resident of this district, I feel the continual bite taken out of my paycheck of taxes at the city, county, and state levels. The recent property tax hike, combined with inflation, makes it harder to afford essentials and puts a strain on families and businesses alike.

Safety is personal for me. I’ve experienced the fear of break-ins and seen friends affected by gun violence. Kansas City’s crime rate is too high; we need more police, tougher laws, and better support for victims and rehabilitation.

I believe in the dignity of work and its critical role in our economy, safety, and schools. As your senator, I will focus on action, not just words.
  • Safety and the rule of law must be our top priorities. Kansas City’s ranking as 8th in crime is unacceptable. Every resident deserves to feel secure in their homes and communities. This is not just about statistics; it’s about real people living in fear and experiencing the consequences of rising crime rates. We need decisive action to restore order and safety. Strong leadership is crucial to enforce the law effectively, support our police, and ensure justice for all. We must address the root causes of crime and invest in programs that prevent violence and support victims. This includes improving law enforcement resources, supporting community policing initiatives, and ensuring our justice system is both fair and efficient.
  • Inflation and high taxes are squeezing every household, making it harder to manage expenses. Even small financial relief can make a big difference in these tough times. As a small business owner, I understand the strain of high taxes and rising costs firsthand. We need practical solutions to ease the tax burden, control inflation, and ensure transparency on how tax dollars are spent. Finding new revenue streams can also help alleviate financial pressure on families and businesses. By focusing on targeted relief, smarter financial policies, and clear accountability, we can address these challenges and support everyone through these difficult times.
  • Job creation is essential for a thriving economy. By expanding job opportunities, we can stimulate economic growth, enhance community safety, and provide financial stability. Employment reduces crime and fosters personal responsibility, creating a safer environment for everyone. When parents can work, they can invest in their children's education, paving the way for a brighter future. While all sectors are vital, there’s an urgent need to address the shortage of trade jobs. Supporting small businesses and investing in workforce development are key to bridging this gap and strengthening our local economy. Together, we can build a more prosperous community with ample job opportunities for all.
Public safety is my top priority. Having experienced break-ins and seen friends affected by violence, I know firsthand the importance of effective law enforcement and community support. We need to enhance police funding and enforce stricter laws to ensure everyone feels secure in their homes.

Fiscal responsibility is equally crucial. High taxes are reducing the livable wage for many families, making it harder to manage day-to-day expenses. We must explore new revenue streams and work towards tax reductions to ease this burden. By focusing on smart financial policies and transparency, we can help residents keep more of their hard-earned money and support a healthier economy.
When asked who I look up to, the answer isn't straightforward because there are so many individuals who have influenced and inspired me. From friends and neighbors to coworkers, I have been fortunate to be surrounded by incredible people. However, the ones I admire the most are my family.

My family is diverse in their thinking and views, especially when it comes to politics. We have members with mixed political views, and they stand firmly behind their beliefs. My parents and step-parents instilled in me the values of hard work and integrity, but if I had to highlight two people, it would be my brothers.

My brothers are the epitome of hard work and dedication. They provide for their families and maintain their lifestyles through sheer effort and determination. They are independent thinkers who don't shy away from standing up for their beliefs, even when it means facing opposition during family get-togethers or dinners. Watching them hold their ground and articulate their views, even when everyone else disagrees, is powerful and inspiring.

Their strength and conviction in their principles have taught me the importance of standing up for what I believe in, no matter the circumstances. They embody the values of resilience, independence, and courage. These qualities have not only shaped who I am but also drive my commitment to serving our community with integrity and determination.
A movie that comes to mind is Cinderella Man. "Cinderella Man" effectively contrasts Braddock's use of temporary assistance as a "hand up" with the broader reliance on "handouts." Braddock’s determination to repay and rise from his situation showcases how targeted support can lead to self-sufficiency and dignity, while the societal focus on continuous aid may not always facilitate long-term success.
Key principles for effective leadership in public office include integrity, dedication to constituents, safety, economic growth, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.

Integrity is crucial for trustworthy leadership, involving unwavering honesty and ethical behavior. Leaders must make decisions transparently and fairly, which builds credibility and fosters strong community trust.

Dedication to Constituents means prioritizing the needs and concerns of those represented. Being accessible, listening actively, and addressing issues with genuine care ensures that every voice is heard and strengthens community engagement.

Safety is fundamental for a thriving community. Leaders must support policies that enhance public security, bolster law enforcement, and effectively address crime. A secure environment protects individuals and promotes overall well-being.

Economic Growth should be pursued with sustainability and fiscal responsibility. Leaders must promote job creation, support small businesses, and encourage investment while maintaining budgetary discipline. This balance ensures growth without compromising financial stability.

Communication Skills are essential for effective engagement. Strong communicators convey ideas clearly, address concerns openly, and build rapport with constituents. Effective communication is key to gaining support and fostering productive dialogue.

Problem-Solving Abilities involve addressing complex issues with a strategic approach. Leaders must analyze challenges, develop practical solutions, and tackle problems efficiently. This proactive mindset helps overcome obstacles and drive progress.

Together, these principles enable an elected official to serve effectively, build trust, and drive meaningful change within their community and state.
As a candidate for the Missouri State Senate in District 7, I bring key qualities that would make me a successful office holder:

Leadership and Problem-Solving Skills: My experience at Cerner Corporation, managing multi-billion-dollar accounts and leading large teams, has honed my leadership and problem-solving abilities, essential for effective legislative work.

Commitment to Community: Growing up in Excelsior Springs, I learned the value of collaboration and community support. This background has instilled in me a strong commitment to improving our community.

Fiscal Responsibility and Business Acumen: Running a small business has given me firsthand experience with budgets, payrolls, and taxes. I am dedicated to making sound financial decisions and finding new revenue streams to ease the tax burden on residents.

Focus on Safety: In Kansas City, I have witnessed the impact of crime through personal experiences and those of friends. This has reinforced my commitment to safety. I advocate for more police officers, stronger laws, better prosecution, and effective rehabilitation programs.

Integrity and Accountability: I champion financial transparency and government accountability. I support clear reporting of spending, regular audits, and reducing bureaucracy to prevent misuse of funds.

Effective Communication and Relationship Building: Building relationships with other legislators is vital for passing effective legislation. My skills in clear communication and collaboration will help me address the needs of District 7 and build consensus on key issues.
Representing Constituents: Elected officials should voice their community's needs and concerns, aligning their actions with the values and priorities of those they serve.

Legislating: Crafting and enacting laws is a key role. Officials review legislation, work with colleagues, and engage stakeholders to develop policies that address important issues and benefit the public.

Oversight: Effective oversight means monitoring government agencies and programs to ensure they work efficiently and legally. This includes holding hearings, reviewing performance, and investigating issues to maintain transparency and accountability.

Budgeting and Fiscal Management: Managing the budget is essential. Officials must balance spending with available resources, prioritize expenditures, and ensure sustainable financial practices to support vital services and economic stability.

Advocacy: Officials must promote important issues, build support among peers and stakeholders, and drive progress on key initiatives that meet community needs.

Communication: Keeping the public informed is crucial. Officials need to update constituents on legislative actions, policy changes, and community matters to ensure transparency and build trust.

Leadership and Decision-Making: Good leadership involves guiding teams and making informed decisions. Officials must set priorities, resolve conflicts, and lead efforts to achieve positive outcomes for their district or state.

Ethical Conduct: Upholding high ethical standards is vital. Officials should act honestly, avoid conflicts of interest, and follow ethical guidelines to maintain public trust and ensure fair governance.

Building Relationships: Collaborating with other officials, stakeholders, and community organizations is important. Strong relationships help advance policies, secure resources, and effectively address issues.
I want my legacy to be defined by hard work, integrity, and a genuine commitment to serving the people. Throughout my career, from leadership roles at Cerner to running a small business, I have consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and dedication to achieving results.

I aim to leave a mark as someone who worked tirelessly for the community, making decisions based on what is best for the people rather than personal gain or external pressures. My focus has always been on practical solutions and tangible results that benefit District 7 and the state of Missouri.

I want to be remembered for my unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and public safety. By advocating for policies that stimulate economic development, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance safety measures, I hope to make a lasting impact that fosters a stronger, safer, and more prosperous community.

Ultimately, my goal is to be seen as a leader who worked with integrity, prioritized the needs of constituents, and left a positive and enduring legacy of service and dedication to the people.
The first significant event in my life was a traumatic accident in which I lost the sight in my left eye. This incident happened during my childhood and shaped me in ways I could have never anticipated. Overcoming such adversity at a young age taught me the importance of resilience, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to life's unexpected challenges.

Losing my eyesight was a difficult experience, but it also became a pivotal moment that defined my approach to obstacles. It reinforced the value of hard work and determination, driving me to excel academically, athletically, and professionally despite the setback. This personal journey of overcoming adversity has deeply influenced my character and my outlook on life.

As I now run for the Missouri State Senate in District 7, I bring this same spirit of resilience and determination to my campaign and to the issues that matter most to our community. I understand firsthand the importance of pushing through difficulties, and I am committed to working tirelessly to address the challenges we face. My experience has taught me that with the right mindset and effort, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve great things together.
My commitment to safety started with my first job as a lifeguard at the local swimming pool in Excelsior Springs. As a lifeguard, I learned the importance of vigilance, quick response, and the responsibility of keeping people safe. Whether it was watching over the swimmers, being ready to jump in at a moment’s notice, or ensuring the pool area was secure, my primary focus was always on the well-being of others.

This early experience instilled in me a deep sense of duty to protect those around me. It’s a commitment that has stayed with me throughout my life. As I now run for the Missouri State Senate in District 7, I bring that same dedication to ensuring the safety and security of our community. From advocating for more police officers to pushing for stronger laws and better rehabilitation programs, my goal is to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.

I’ve always tried to protect people, from my first job as a lifeguard to my current role as a small business owner and community leader. Safety isn’t just a priority for me; it’s a lifelong commitment. Together, we can create a safer, stronger community where everyone can thrive.
"How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie
I’m a big fan of action-packed movies like The Fast and the Furious, where intense challenges and high stakes are central to the story. However, a character I truly relate to is Andy Dufresne from "The Shawshank Redemption". Andy’s resilience, intelligence, and strategic thinking in the face of significant adversity resonate with me. His ability to adapt, problem-solve, and ultimately achieve success despite tough circumstances mirrors my own approach to overcoming obstacles and making a positive impact.
One significant struggle in my life has been managing the challenges of overcoming personal adversity. Specifically, losing my eyesight in my left eye due to a traumatic accident was a major obstacle. This experience tested my resilience and forced me to adapt and persevere in ways I had not anticipated.

Despite this setback, I have used it as a driving force to push myself further in both my personal and professional life. It taught me valuable lessons about facing adversity head-on, maintaining a positive outlook, and never giving up, no matter how difficult the circumstances. This struggle has shaped my character and strengthened my resolve to address challenges with determination and a problem-solving mindset.
For effective governance, it's crucial to secure the governor's support for legislative proposals. The ideal relationship between the Missouri State Legislature and the governor involves collaboration and mutual respect. To achieve successful outcomes, legislators need to work closely with the governor, ensuring that proposed laws align with the governor’s priorities and secure their endorsement. This cooperation ensures that legislation is well-received, effectively implemented, and serves the best interests of Missouri’s residents.
Economic Development: Diversifying the economy and creating quality jobs, particularly in rural areas.

Healthcare: Expanding access to affordable care and managing rising costs.

Education: Improving school funding and aligning education with workforce needs.

Infrastructure: Upgrading transportation and expanding broadband access.

Public Safety: Reducing crime and implementing effective criminal justice reforms.
While previous government experience helps with the learning curve, effective governance can be achieved through intelligence, strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and active community engagement. With these qualities, the learning curve can be overcome quickly, ensuring effective and responsive leadership.
Yes, building relationships with other legislators is crucial for effective governance. Strong connections facilitate collaboration, negotiation, and the successful passage of legislation. In a predominantly Republican state like Missouri, sending a Democrat to the state legislature may face challenges in achieving effective results due to differing priorities and party dynamics. Ensuring alignment with the majority party can enhance the effectiveness of legislative efforts and better serve the state's interests.
There are a few that come to mind when I think about tax reform or job creation, but I would also say that crime reduction and safety are key. Although not a legislator, Rudy Giuliani, as Mayor of New York City from 1994 to 2001, is widely credited with dramatically reducing crime and transforming the city’s safety landscape. His implementation of the "Broken Windows" policing strategy, which focused on cracking down on minor offenses to prevent more serious crimes, played a key role in lowering crime rates. Giuliani also emphasized community policing and invested in law enforcement resources, leading to a notable decrease in both violent and property crimes. His tenure marked a significant shift in urban policing and is often cited as a model for crime reduction in large cities.
At present, I’m not considering running for another political office, like U.S. Congress or governor. My focus is on gaining experience and addressing real issues at the state level first, all for the people of Missouri and District 7. I am committed to being a man of action, not distraction. If the process proves slow and ineffective, and I cannot fulfill my promises, I believe it would be right for constituents to choose someone more effective. However, if I excel in my current role, achieve significant results, and build strong partnerships with local and county governments and community leaders, I would consider a grander position. This would allow me to broaden my impact and serve more people, sharing my successes with a wider audience—all for the benefit of the people.
There have been quite a few. But one that stuck out to me was the story of a gentleman named Jason.

Jason grew up in a rough neighborhood, where opportunities were scarce, and troubles were frequent. As a young man, he found himself caught up in a series of poor decisions that led to a stint in jail. It was a dark chapter in his life, but Jason used it as a turning point rather than an end.
While serving his sentence, Jason reflected on his past and vowed to change his future. After his release, he started from scratch, taking on odd jobs and saving every penny he could. With sheer determination and hard work, Jason managed to buy his first house—an old fixer-upper in need of significant repairs.
Despite the challenges, Jason poured his heart into renovating the property. He learned everything he could about home improvement, using his own hands to transform the run-down house into a beautiful home. He sold it for a profit and reinvested the money into buying and flipping more houses. Each successful project brought him closer to his dream.
But Jason didn’t forget where he came from. He knew the struggles of being down on your luck and wanted to help others who were facing similar hardships. He created a home rehabilitation team made up of individuals who had also experienced tough times. Together, they worked on transforming properties, providing a second chance for both the homes and the people involved.

The story of Jason is one of resilience and redemption. From a troubled past, he built a new life through hard work and perseverance. Now, he not only supports himself but also helps others find their path to success. His journey illustrates how determination and a willingness to give back can create a positive impact on the community.
My dad has always been a fantastic public speaker, known for his ability to lighten the mood with a good dad joke. Here's one of his favorites:

Why don't skeletons fight each other?

They don't have the guts!
Yes, the legislature should oversee and grant emergency powers. This ensures a proper check on the executive branch, promotes transparency, and holds leaders accountable. By requiring legislative approval, we prevent misuse of power and maintain a balance between branches of government. This approach aligns with my values of limited government and responsible governance.
I understand that previous proposals to legalize online sports gambling in Missouri have been presented but not passed. However, I believe it’s time to revisit and refine this idea. By streamlining and updating the previous legislation, we can address concerns, eliminate unnecessary clutter, and craft a bill that effectively supports local businesses and generates valuable tax revenue for our state. This updated proposal aims to provide a clear, practical solution that benefits our economy and enhances state funding while ensuring responsible and regulated sports betting.

Key Points:

Legalization: Permit online sports betting through licensed platforms with strict regulations.
Support for Local Businesses: Increase foot traffic to restaurants and bars, particularly during major sports events.
Tax Revenue: Tax online sports betting to fund state projects or reduce taxes on residents.
Consumer Protections: Implement measures to prevent underage gambling and promote responsible betting.

Economic Impact Study: Monitor and assess the economic impact on local businesses to adjust policies as needed.
Judiciary and Civil & Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee

Economic Development Committee
I advocate for clear and accessible reporting of government spending to ensure financial transparency. Regular audits and reducing bureaucracy are essential to prevent misuse of taxpayer funds and maintain public trust. Emphasizing fiscal responsibility, I call for balanced budgets and strict enforcement of regulations to safeguard taxpayer dollars. By applying private sector practices, I aim to enhance government efficiency and effectiveness. Transparency in lobbying and campaign finance is crucial for accountability. Additionally, I believe that limiting government power is key to improving oversight and ensuring that government serves the public effectively, fostering a more trustworthy and accountable administration.
The ballot initiative process is an interesting tool for direct democracy, allowing citizens to propose and vote on laws. However, as someone who values careful lawmaking and limited government, I believe that bills and laws should be crafted with thorough consideration and expertise. Elected legislators are chosen to represent their districts and handle complex issues, ensuring that laws are well-considered and effective. While the initiative process provides a valuable avenue for citizen involvement, it's crucial to balance it with the need for thoughtful and deliberate legislative work.

With that said, maybe there is an alternative process where it is a hybrid of both. The ballot initiative process is a valuable tool for direct democracy, but to ensure thoughtful and effective legislation, I propose a refined approach:

Proposal Submission: When citizens propose a new law or change through a ballot initiative, their proposal is reviewed and assessed by the initiating body.

Legislative Review: If the proposal meets certain criteria, it is forwarded to the legislature in Jefferson City. Elected representatives would then draft and refine the bill, incorporating expertise and addressing any potential issues.

Legislative Action: The legislature would work to create and pass the proposed law, ensuring it is well-crafted and effective.

People’s Vote: If the legislature does not act on the proposal or fails to create a satisfactory law, the original proposal can still be presented for a direct vote by the people.

This approach balances direct citizen input with the expertise of elected legislators, ensuring that laws are carefully considered while respecting the will of the people.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign finance summary


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Joey LaSalle campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2024* Missouri State Senate District 7Lost general$9,105 $6,997
Grand total$9,105 $6,997
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also


External links

Footnotes

  1. Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on July 19, 2024


Current members of the Missouri State Senate
Leadership
Majority Leader:Tony Luetkemeyer
Minority Leader:Doug Beck
Senators
District 1
Doug Beck (D)
District 2
District 3
District 4
Karla May (D)
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
District 12
District 13
District 14
District 15
District 16
District 17
District 18
District 19
District 20
District 21
District 22
District 23
District 24
District 25
District 26
Ben Brown (R)
District 27
District 28
District 29
Mike Moon (R)
District 30
District 31
District 32
District 33
District 34
Republican Party (24)
Democratic Party (10)