Rep. Greg Razer understands rural Missouri much better than it understands him

Razer was raised in Cooter, MO, population 450. "Not a great place for a closeted gay kid to grow up," he says.
Photo: Kelcie McKenney


by Barbara Shelly


The Missouri legislature recently wrapped up a session that was awful for — among others — women, LGBTQ Missourians, and Democrats. Greg Razer is two of those three. On a recent Saturday morning, he’s holding a town hall to tell his constituents all about it.

About 70 people of various ages have interrupted their weekend activities to hear from their state representative in an anteroom at a Brookside church. One woman carries a yoga mat. Another brings two dogs in a basket. A kid in a Scout’s uniform scribbles copious notes.

Later this evening, Razer will appear on stage at Kansas City PrideFest wearing jeans and a T-shirt with a queen’s insignia. But this morning, he’s sporting a suit with an open-collared oxford shirt. People greet him as they would a well-liked neighbor.

“This was my third year in the legislature, and most of the time I thank you for sending me there,” Razer says.

Read more: https://www.thepitchkc.com/news/article/21075160/greg-razer-a-gay-democrat-representing-kansas-city-understands-rural-missouri-much-better-than-it-understands-him
(Kansas City Pitch)