(LISTEN): "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn discusses 2025 and Missouri's economy on "Wake Up Missouri"

The state’s largest business association wants to see Missouri be a top-ten state in manufacturing. Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Kara Corches tells 939 the Eagle that the Show-Me State currently ranks 28th in manufacturing competitiveness. She says manufacturing in Missouri employs about 287,000 people, contributing $50-billion annually to the state’s gross domestic product. The Chamber wants to see that number be higher. The Missouri Chamber Foundation is making seven recommendations. They include expanding the workforce pipeline for manufacturing careers and providing incentives and technical assistance to increase capital investment. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri", telling listeners that he's optimistic Missouri will see more growth under new Governor Mike Kehoe (R). But Mr. Faughn is candid, saying Republicans have controlled both chambers for 22 years and that Missouri has seen little growth. According to Mr. Faughn, Missouri saw more growth under former Speaker Bob Griffin (D-Cameron) than it did under former Speaker Dean Plocher (R-Des Peres), who left office in January: