May 6th, 2026 Local News
St. Francois Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Whitney Wisker-Brooks has officially announced her candidacy for State Representative in Missouri’s 116th House District, entering the race with a focus on strengthening rural communities and increasing local representation in Jefferson City.
Wisker-Brooks, who identifies as a constitutional progressive, says her campaign will center on issues that directly impact residents across the district, including access to healthcare, support for public education, and the creation of quality jobs that allow families to remain in their communities.
“The people of Missouri’s 116th District deserve representation that listens, advocates, and fights for rural communities,” Wisker-Brooks said. “We deserve leadership that understands that education builds opportunity, affordability creates freedom, and healthcare sustains life.”
Drawing from more than a decade of experience as a social worker, Wisker-Brooks emphasized the economic pressures facing many families in the region. She said she has worked closely with individuals struggling to balance everyday expenses, noting that some are forced to choose between necessities like fuel and groceries.
Wisker-Brooks also raised concerns about the current direction of state leadership, pointing to what she described as a need for greater focus on practical solutions that improve residents’ quality of life.
Her campaign plans include increased community engagement and collaboration with local leaders, educators, healthcare providers, and small businesses. She says this approach will help ensure that policies reflect the needs and priorities of the district.
Additional details about campaign events and policy initiatives are expected to be released in the coming weeks.