Missouri GOP Candidate Charged with Conspiracy to Plant Drugs on Opponent

Thomas Ross, a Republican candidate for state representative in Missouri, is facing a federal charge related to allegations that he instructed his former campaign manager to plant cocaine and amphetamines on a political opponent, according to an announcement from the Justice Department on September 3, 2026. Ross, 37, is charged with one count of conspiring to distribute a controlled substance in the alleged scheme against Louise Secker, whom he defeated by 33 votes in the Republican primary for Missouri's House District 161 last month. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Missouri reported that the former campaign manager, whose name has not been disclosed, contacted the Joplin Police Department regarding a 'public corruption' matter and provided a black nylon glove that he claimed was given to him by Ross. Inside the glove was a small amount of white powder that FBI testing confirmed to be cocaine, along with one capsule of the stimulant Adderall. Prosecutors stated that the former campaign manager presented text messages allegedly from Ross instructing him to plant the drugs in Secker's purse or car while Ross was on vacation. Investigators believe Ross may have used Adderall from his own prescription in the alleged scheme, as reported by CBS affiliate KOLR-TV. KOLR also indicated that court records reveal FBI agents provided the former campaign manager with a recording device. During a meeting with Ross in July, the campaign manager suggested making an anonymous tip about Secker having drugs in her possession, to which Ross allegedly responded, 'If you can pull it off ... pull it off.' Peter Kinder, chairman of the Missouri Republican Party, described the accusations as 'serious and deeply troubling' and urged Ross to withdraw from the race. U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price stated that his office will continue to uphold fairness, transparency, and integrity in elections and will pursue violations of public trust when necessary. He emphasized that candidates are expected to conduct their campaigns with integrity, honesty, and respect for their opponents, allowing voters to make informed decisions without fear of misinformation or undue influence.