[co-author: Stephanie Kozol]*
On Tuesday, Governor Mike Kehoe announced that Catherine Lucille Hanaway will become attorney general (AG) of Missouri on September 8. Her appointment follows the resignation of Andrew Bailey, who is stepping down to assume a federal role as co-deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Hanaway has a distinguished career in law and politics, having served as the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri from 2005 to 2009. During her tenure, she oversaw the prosecution of more than 4,000 cases, focusing on methamphetamine manufacturing, child exploitation, and government corruption.
The AG in Missouri is responsible for upholding state laws, representing the state in legal matters, and protecting the interests of Missouri’s citizens. Hanaway’s appointment continues the trend of gubernatorial appointments to the AG’s office, following predecessors such as current U.S. Senators Eric Schmitt and Josh Hawley.
Kehoe stated, “Catherine Hanaway’s record of integrity and public service makes her the right choice to protect Missouri families and uphold the rule of law. Her experience as a prosecutor and legislative leader will serve our state well in these challenging times.” Hanaway is the first woman to hold the position of AG in Missouri’s history and was also the first female speaker of the House in Missouri.
Hanaway grew up in Missouri and holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Creighton University and a law degree from the Columbus School of Law. She began her legal career in private practice and most recently served as a partner at Husch Blackwell’s St. Louis office, focusing on areas such as the Anti-Kickback Statute and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.
*Senior Government Relations Manager
