Lawmakers return to session on Monday for the first time since news of Governor Eric Greitens' indictment broke.
"There are articles all over the country, so it's pretty well-known what's going on in Missouri," Rep. Judy Morgan (D-Kansas City) lamented.
Last week the governor was indicted on a felony invasion of privacy charge for allegedly taking a nude photo of his mistress without her consent.
For lawmakers the news has been impossible to ignore.
"I think work will continue, but obviously it's a distraction when you've got a felony charge against the governor," Rep. Morgan said.
As Morgan and others return to session in Jefferson City on Monday, a second investigation into Greitens is just beginning. Speaker Todd Richardson (R-Poplar Bluff) confirmed he'll convene a group of legislators to look into the charges. He is expected to select members for this special committee and host the first meeting sometime this week.
Lawmakers like Rep. Greg Razer (D-Kansas City) hope to push past the headlines and focus on work in Jefferson City.
"I think when we see a lack of leadership from the governor's mansion, it's imperative of the legislature to step up our game and show leadership for the people of Missouri," Rep. Razer said.
Razer and Morgan are among the growing group of lawmakers in both the House and Senate calling for Greitens to resign.
Senator Jason Holsman (D-Kansas City) released this statement to 41 Action News:
"Eric Greitens should resign to let the state move forward. The seriousness of a criminal grand jury indictment requires his complete attention. The citizens of Missouri deserve a governor who can focus on their needs instead of being a distraction."
Similar statements have been made by Republican lawmakers.
"I think there is a mandate that you need from Missouri citizens to govern, and I think at this point it would be difficult for Governor Greitens to move forward the things that people want to see in terms of legislative agenda and public policy," Rep. Kevin Corlew (R-Platte County) said.
Both the House and Senate return to session on Monday.
