Missouri will soon have a new attorney general.

During a press conference in Jefferson City on Wednesday, Gov. Mike Parson announced that he is appointing Andrew Bailey to the position.

The appointment will fill the vacancy created by the election of current Attorney General Eric Schmitt to the U.S. Senate.

Schmitt will be replacing retiring U.S. Senator Roy Blunt.

Andrew Bailey currently serves as General Counsel to the Office of Governor Mike Parson.

“The historical significance of appointing an Attorney General for the second time of our administration has not been lost on me. But such a monumental, history-defining decision can be made so easily with the right candidate, and Andrew Bailey is the right candidate to lead Missourians as our next Attorney General,” Gov. Parson said. “While it’s bittersweet to lose Andrew on our team, it gives us peace of mind to know his talents and passion for the rule of law and public service will be so well utilized as Attorney General. Andrew understands the need to do better, to be better, and with Andrew, better will not only be possible but achieved.”

“I want to thank Governor Parson, the entire Governor’s Office team, and of course my wife and children for their love and support. God has truly blessed me and my family with the opportunities He has granted us,” Bailey said. “I’m excited to get to work on behalf of Missourians to uphold the rule of law, protect freedoms, and ensure our kids and grandkids inherit a better world. My entire career has been defined by public service, and now I’m ready to continue that service as your Attorney General, where I will work tirelessly to earn your trust and never stop fighting on your behalf.”

Bailey joined the Governor’s Office as Deputy General Counsel in 2019 and has served as General Counsel since 2021. He has also served as a Missouri Assistant Attorney General, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for the Warren County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, and as General Counsel for the Missouri Department of Corrections.