Activist Justice Horn Request Removal Review Against Jackson County Exec LeVota

The latest power move from a local leader amid ongoing courthouse drama . . . Here's the word: 

Justice Horn: Request for Quo Warranto Review of Phil LeVota's Authority to Serve as Jackson County Executive 

Dear Attorney General Hanaway,

I am writing this as a concerned Missouri resident. I would like to ask your office to consider whether your office should initiate a quo warranto proceeding concerning Phil LeVota's continued authority to serve as Jackson County Executive.

The federal government has indicted Mr. LeVota on five counts arising from issues connected to the 2026 Jackson County Executive race. According to the indictment, Mr. LeVota allegedly discussed the use of a county government position as an incentive for a political candidate to leave the race. These communications were also taped per the indictment. I understand that an indictment is an accusation and that Mr. LeVota is entitled to the presumption of innocence. 

I am not asking your office to determine his guilt or innocence. That is a matter for the federal courts. My concern is a different one: whether, under Missouri law, an individual facing these allegations should continue to exercise the authority of the Jackson County Executive while those proceedings are pending. I believe that question deserves an independent review by the State of Missouri and the chief law enforcement officer: The Missouri Attorney General. 

I am also concerned about relying on the local process to answer the call. Given the political circumstances surrounding this matter and the relationships involved, I do not feel confident that the Jackson County Prosecutor's Office can provide the level of independent review that I believe the circumstances call for.

That is why I am asking you, Attorney General Hanaway, to take a look at this matter.

There is also growing concern among Jackson County residents. We have started a public petition calling for Mr. LeVota's removal from office, and it has already received the support of several dozen residents. The petition continues to gain attention, has been reported on by local media, and continues to drive our call for accountability for one of the most powerful posts locally. I also believe the residents of Jackson County are being harmed because of this indictment and another bribery investigation being conducted related to the legislature. You are our last hope. 

If after your independent review you determine that the legal requirements for quo warranto are met, I ask that your office consider taking that action and allow a court to determine whether Mr. LeVota is legally entitled to continue holding and exercising the office.

Thank you for your service to the people of Missouri and for considering this request.

Respectfully,

-Justice Horn
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