Rumors right about American Royal, tobacco funds, hospitals

The Statehouse crystal ball is cracked, especially when it comes to projecting how much revenue will come in each month and year. But the accuracy of the rumor mill is unparalleled this year. Lawmakers’ and activists’ claims of Brownback administration desires and efforts to lure the American Royal horse and livestock exhibition away from Missouri, sell off the remaining tobacco settlement payments and privatize the state mental hospitals have all proved well-founded. Instead of trying to dismiss such concerns as speculation and “black helicopter” stuff, administration officials might try better transparency and communication from the outset. – Rhonda Holman

This story was originally published March 17, 2016 at 7:07 PM.